U.S. patent application number 13/921329 was filed with the patent office on 2014-12-25 for electronic search interface technology.
This patent application is currently assigned to SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Jason Adam Denise. Invention is credited to Jason Adam Denise.
Application Number | 20140379694 13/921329 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42711101 |
Filed Date | 2014-12-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140379694 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Denise; Jason Adam |
December 25, 2014 |
Electronic Search Interface Technology
Abstract
Techniques are described for displaying a representation of a
list of electronic search results while a user is reviewing content
linked to by electronic search results included in the list. While
the user is reviewing the search results, the user may jump between
content linked to by different search results using the
representation of the list of electronic search results displayed.
The displayed representation of the list of search results may be
updated based on the user's browsing activities in reviewing the
search results, user input manipulating the list of search results,
and supplemental information added to the list of search results by
the user.
Inventors: |
Denise; Jason Adam; (Bowie,
MD) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Denise; Jason Adam |
Bowie |
MD |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
SHUTTERSTOCK, INC.
|
Family ID: |
42711101 |
Appl. No.: |
13/921329 |
Filed: |
June 19, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
707/722 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 16/9038 20190101;
G06F 16/951 20190101 |
Class at
Publication: |
707/722 |
International
Class: |
G06F 17/30 20060101
G06F017/30 |
Claims
1. A method comprising: causing display of at least a portion of an
interface that includes an input field configured to enable a user
to enter one or more terms that define a search query and that
includes a search control configured to, when selected based on
user input, initiate a search using a search query entered in the
input field at a time of selection of the search control; receiving
user input selecting the search control included in the interface
at a time when one or more terms have been entered in the input
field included in the interface to define a first search query; in
response to the selection of the search control included in the
interface at the time when one or more terms have been entered in
the input field included in the interface to define the first
search query: accessing the first search query that was entered in
the input field included in the interface at a time of selection of
the search control; performing a search using the first search
query that was entered in the input field included in the interface
at the time of selection of the search control to identify search
results that are responsive to the first search query; based on
performing the search using the first search query, identifying a
first list of search results that are responsive to the first
search query, the first list of search results including at least a
first search result that is responsive to the first search query
and that links to first electronic content; and causing display of
the first list of search results identified based on performing the
search using the first search query, the display of the first list
of search results having a representation of the first search
result that includes description information that is descriptive of
the first search result and a first link that links to the first
electronic content; after a particular user has selected the first
link of the first search result included in the display of the
first list of search results to cause display, within a browser
interface, of the first electronic content linked to by the first
link of the first search result, causing display, within the
browser interface, of a side interface area that is displayed
concurrently with the first electronic content in the browser
interface and that enables the particular user to add a comment
regarding the first electronic content in association with
information that identifies the particular user associated with the
comment.
2. The method of claim 1: wherein causing display of the first list
of search results identified based on performing the search using
the first search query comprises causing display, in a first
portion of the browser interface that has a first width spanning a
width of the browser interface, of the first list of search results
identified based on performing the search using the first search
query; and wherein causing display, within the browser interface,
of a side interface area that is displayed concurrently with the
first electronic content in the browser interface and that enables
the particular user to add a comment regarding the first electronic
content linked to by the first search result in association with
information that identifies the particular user associated with the
comment comprises causing display of the first electronic content
in a second portion of the browser interface that has a second
width narrower than the first width and display of the side
interface area in a third portion of the browser interface that has
a third width narrower than the first width and the second
width.
3. The method of claim 1: wherein causing display of the first list
of search results identified based on performing the search using
the first search query comprises causing display, in a first
portion of the browser interface that spans a width of the browser
interface and that spans a height of the browser interface, of the
first list of search results identified based on performing the
search using the first search query; and wherein causing display,
within the browser interface, of a side interface area that is
displayed concurrently with the first electronic content in the
browser interface and that enables the particular user to add a
comment regarding the first electronic content linked to by the
first search result in association with information that identifies
the particular user associated with the comment comprises causing
display of the first electronic content in a second portion of the
browser interface that spans the height of the browser interface
and that is less than the width of the browser interface, and
display of the side interface area in a third portion of the
browser interface that spans the height of the browser interface
and that is less than the width of the browser interface, where a
combined width of the second portion of the browser interface and
the third portion of the browser interface spans width of the
browser interface.
4. The method of claim 1: wherein causing display of the first list
of search results identified based on performing the search using
the first search query comprises causing display, in the browser
interface, of the first list of search results identified based on
performing the search using the first search query; and wherein
causing display, within the browser interface, of a side interface
area that is displayed concurrently with the first electronic
content in the browser interface and that enables the particular
user to add a comment regarding the first electronic content linked
to by the first search result in association with information that
identifies the particular user associated with the comment
comprises segmenting the browser interface into a first portion
that displays the first electronic content and a second portion
that displays the side interface area that enables the particular
user to add a comment regarding the first electronic content in
association with information that identifies the particular user
associated with the comment.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein segmenting the browser interface
into a first portion that displays the first electronic content and
a second portion that displays the side interface area that enables
the particular user to add a comment regarding the first electronic
content in association with information that identifies the
particular user associated with the comment comprises segmenting
the browser interface without impacting a chrome portion of the
browser interface such that the chrome portion of the browser
interface at a time when the first list of search results is
displayed within the browser interface is the same as the chrome
portion of the browser interface at a time when the first
electronic content and the side interface area are displayed in the
browser interface.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising causing display of a
comment regarding the first electronic content added using the side
interface area in association with a reformatted representation of
the first search result that is included in a list and that has
reduced description information of the first search result as
compared to the description information included in the
representation of the first search result in the display of the
first list of search results.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising, in response to
receiving selection of an interface element included in the side
interface area that is displayed concurrently with the first
electronic content in the browser interface, causing display of
comment information that corresponds to the selected interface
element and that is hidden from display at a time of selection of
the interface element included in the side interface area.
8. The method of claim 1, further comprising, after a comment
regarding the first electronic content has been added, causing
display of a graphical comment indicator that indicates that a
comment exists regarding the first electronic content displayed in
the browser interface.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising, in response to user
input selecting a subset of the first electronic content in a
manner that causes visual distinction of the selected subset of the
first electronic content and user input selecting an interface
control at a time when the subset of the first electronic content
is selected, updating the side interface area by storing the
selected subset of the first electronic content in association with
information that identifies a user that selected the subset of the
first electronic content and changing display of the side interface
area based on the selection of the interface control at the time
when the subset of the first electronic content is selected.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising causing display,
within the side interface area below any comment information
included in the side interface area, of a next interface control
that is configured to remove, from the side interface area, at
least one item displayed in the side interface area at a time when
the next interface control is selected and replace the at least one
item removed from the side interface area with at least one
additional item hidden from display at the time when the next
interface control is selected.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 13/088,307 filed Apr. 15, 2011 which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 12/331,406, filed Dec. 9, 2008, both of which
are incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all
purposes.
FIELD
[0002] This document relates to electronic search interface
technology.
BACKGROUND
[0003] An electronic search provider may enable a user to submit a
search query related to information in which the user is
interested. In response to the submitted search query, the
electronic search provider identifies electronic documents that
match the submitted search query and displays the matching
electronic document as a list of search results.
SUMMARY
[0004] Implementations of the described techniques may include
hardware, a method or process implemented at least partially in
hardware, or a computer-readable storage medium encoded with
executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, perform
operations. The details of one or more implementations are set
forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other
features will be apparent from the description and drawings, and
from the claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0005] FIGS. 1-4, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22-24, 26-28,
30, 32, 34, 35, 38, 40, 42, 44, and 46 illustrate examples of user
interfaces.
[0006] FIGS. 5 and 50 depict examples of electronic search
systems.
[0007] FIGS. 6, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 25, 29, 31, 33, 36, 37, 39,
41, 43, 45, 47, and 48 are flowcharts of example processes.
[0008] FIG. 49 is a diagram of an example data structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0009] Techniques are described for displaying a representation of
a list of electronic search results while a user is reviewing
content linked to by electronic search results included in the
list. While the user is reviewing the search results, the user may
jump between content linked to by different search results using
the representation of the list of electronic search results
displayed. The displayed representation of the list of search
results may be updated based on the user's browsing activities in
reviewing the search results, user input manipulating the list of
search results, and supplemental information added to the list of
search results by the user.
[0010] Referring to FIG. 1, an interface 100 of a search system
includes an input field 110 and a search control 120. The input
field 110 enables a user to enter a search query that includes one
or more terms and parameters (e.g., logical operators) defining the
desired analysis of the search query. When a user selects the
search control 120 using, for example, an input device 130, the
search system performs a search using the search query entered in
the input field 110 and displays results of the search to the
user.
[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates an interface 200 that displays search
results identified in response to a search query entered by a user.
The interface 200 includes a list of search results 205. Each
search result included in the list 205 links to electronic content
associated with the search result and enables the user to view or
link to the associated electronic content upon selection of the
search result. Each search result also includes description
information that is descriptive of the search result and its
relevancy to the entered search query. The description information
may include a summary, related links, relevancy ratings, a uniform
resource locator (URL), etc.
[0012] The interface 200 also includes a next page input control
210 that enables a user to view more search results that are
responsive to the search query and that are not displayed on the
current page. The interface 200 further includes an input query
field 215 and a search control 220. The input query field 215 and
the search control 220 may be similar to the input field 110 and
the search control 120 described above with respect to FIG. 1. In
some implementations, the interface 200 includes an advertisement
225, one or more sponsored links 230, and search results data 235.
The advertisement 225 and the one or more sponsored links 230 may
be selected based on the search query to which the list of search
results 205 is responsive and contextually targeted to information
the user is seeking. The search results data 235 may include data
related to the list of search results 205 (e.g., the number of
results) and/or data related to the search process (e.g., the time
it took to identify the search results).
[0013] As shown, the interface 200 is displayed in the context of a
browser and includes several browser controls. For instance, the
interface 200 includes an address input field 240 and a go input
control 245. The address input field 240 enables a user to enter a
network address and, when a user selects the go input control 245,
the browser accesses and displays electronic content (e.g., a web
page) associated with the network address entered into the address
input field 240. The interface 200 also includes a back input
control 250 that, when selected, causes the browser to access and
display electronic content (e.g., web page) displayed immediately
prior to the current electronic content (e.g., web page) in the
user's browsing history, a forward input control 255 that, when
selected, causes the browser to access and display the electronic
content (e.g., web page) displayed immediately after the current
electronic content (e.g., web page) in the user's browsing history,
a stop input control 260 that, when selected, causes the browser to
stop accessing and displaying content the browser is currently
attempting to access and display, and a refresh input control 265
that, when selected, causes the browser to re-access and display
the electronic content (e.g., web page) currently displayed. The
interface 200 may include other toolbar buttons 270 and a menu list
275 that includes other input controls that enable a user to
control the browser.
[0014] As shown in FIG. 2, a user input icon 280 may be displayed
and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select a search
result included in the list of search results 205. For example, the
user input icon 280 may be positioned over Search Result 4 when the
user provides user input of a selection command. In this example,
the user input results in selection of Search Result 4. In response
to the selection, the browser may access electronic content
associated with the Search Result 4 and update a display based on
the selection.
[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates an interface 300 that may be displayed in
response to selection of a search result (e.g., Search Result 4) in
the interface 200. The interface 300 includes a search results
portion 305 and a content portion 310. The search results portion
305 provides a representation of the search results included in the
list of search results 205 while the content portion 310 displays a
representation of content corresponding to a selected search
result. By displaying the list of search results 205 concurrently
with content corresponding to a selected search result, the
interface 300 enables a user to perceive search results (and other
information related to the search results) as the user reviews
content corresponding to the search results. In this regard, the
interface 300 may provide an enhanced user experience by making
search results review more efficient and allowing the user to
review additional search results and monitor which results the user
has reviewed without having to navigate back to the list of search
results 205 displayed directly in response to entry of a search
query.
[0016] The search results portion 305 includes a list of search
results 315, a search identifier 320, a displayed result indicator
325, a next page interface control 330, a first advertisement 335,
a second advertisement 340, and a sponsored link 345. The list of
search results 315 represents a reformatted version of the list of
search results 205 displayed directly in response to entry of the
Query 1. Each search result included in the list 315 links to
electronic content associated with the search result and enables
the user to view or link to the associated electronic content upon
selection of the search result. As shown, the search results
included in the list 315 each have a result identifier that
identifies individual search results included in the list 315, but
have reduced description information from the list of search
results 205. The reduced description information or reformatted
identification of the search results may enable the search results
to be displayed concurrently with content.
[0017] The search identifier 320 identifies a number of the search
within a particular search session (e.g., Search 1) to which the
list of search results 315 corresponds and also identifies the
query (e.g., Query 1) to which the list of search results 315 is
responsive. The search identifier 320 is associated with a control
element that enables a user to expand (e.g., enable display) or
minimize (e.g., hide from display) the list of search results
315.
[0018] The displayed result indicator 325 provides a visual
indication of which search result included in the list of search
results 315 is associated with the content displayed in the content
portion. As shown, the displayed result indicator 325 identifies
Result 4 to indicate that Result 4 is the currently selected search
result for which content is displayed.
[0019] The next page interface control 330 updates the list of
search results 315 with additional results upon user selection. For
instance, in response to selection of the next page interface
control 330, results one to seven may be removed from display and
replaced with seven different search results that have the next
seven highest relevancy ratings with respect to Query 1 of the
results identified in the search process performed upon entry of
Query 1.
[0020] In addition, the update of the list of search results 315
that occurs in response to selection of the next page interface
control 330 may be based on browsing activities of the user in
reviewing the list of search results 315. For example, the list of
search results 315 may be updated by maintaining the search results
that have been reviewed by the user and replacing the search
results that have not been reviewed with new results (e.g., move
Result 4 to the top of the list 315, remove Results 1-3 and 5-7,
and add six new results to the list 315 when the next page
interface control 330 is selected as shown in FIG. 3).
Alternatively, the list of search results 315 may be updated by
maintaining the search results that have not been reviewed by the
user and replacing the search results that have been reviewed with
new results (e.g., remove Result 4 from the list 315 and add one
new result to the bottom of the list 315 when the next page
interface control 330 is selected as shown in FIG. 3).
[0021] The first advertisement 335 may be an advertisement targeted
based on the search query entered (e.g., the same as the
advertisement 225) and the second advertisement 340 may be an
advertisement targeted based on the search result selected (e.g.,
targeted specifically based on the user selection of Result 4) on
based on a combination of the search query entered and the search
result selected. The sponsored link 345 may be a sponsored link
that is selected based on the search query entered and/or the
search result selected. By maintaining display of advertisements
and sponsored links while a user reviews search results and
targeting the displayed advertisements and sponsored links based on
the user's review of the search results, a search provider (or a
search results interface provider) may be able to drive additional
revenue based on the increased opportunity to display (and update)
advertisements to a user as the user reviews search results.
[0022] The content portion 310 displays a representation of
electronic content corresponding to a selected search result (e.g.,
Result 4). The electronic content may include text content, image
content, video content, links (e.g., hyperlinks), or any other type
of electronic content. For instance, the electronic content may be
a web page, a web site, or any other type of content made available
over a network, such as the Internet.
[0023] As shown in FIG. 3, a user input icon 350 may be displayed
and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select a search
result included in the list of search results 315. For example, the
user input icon 350 may be positioned over Result 2 when the user
provides user input of a selection command. In this example, the
user input results in selection of Result 2. In response to the
selection, the browser may access electronic content associated
with the Result 2 and update a display based on the selection.
[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates an interface 400 that may be displayed in
response to selection of a search result (e.g., Result 2) in the
interface 300. The interface 400 includes a search results portion
405 and a content portion 410, each of which has been updated based
on the selection of Result 2 while the user was reviewing
electronic content corresponding to Result 4. For instance, the
updated items in the search results portion 405 include a displayed
result indicator 425, a second advertisement 440, and a sponsored
link 445. As shown, the displayed result indicator 425 has been
updated and now identifies Result 2 to indicate that Result 2 is
the currently selected search result for which content is
displayed. The second advertisement 440 and the sponsored link 445
represent a new advertisement and a new sponsored link that have
been selected based on the user's selection of Result 2.
[0025] The content portion 410 displays a representation of
electronic content corresponding to a selected search result (e.g.,
Result 2). In response to the selection of Result 2 in the
interface 300, the electronic content associated with Result 2 may
be accessed and displayed in the content portion 410 to replace the
electronic content associated with Result 4.
[0026] Referring to FIG. 5, a block diagram of an electronic search
system 500 is shown. The system 500 includes a client device 505, a
network 580, and a search provider 590. The network 580 enables the
client device 505 and the search provider 590 to exchange
electronic communications.
[0027] The client device 505 includes an input module 510, a data
store 520, search results and browsing data 530, a processor 540,
an input/output (I/O) device 550, and a memory 560. The client
device 505 may be used to display search results to a user. The
client device 505 may be a portable device or a desktop computer.
The client device 505 may be implemented within hardware or a
combination of hardware and software.
[0028] The input module 510 imports data associated with search
interfaces. The data may include data resulting from a search
process. The data also may include data related to interface
settings that are used in displaying search results. The input
module 510 may input data from a device (e.g., the search provider
590) connected to the network 580. In some implementations, the
input module 510 reformats and/or transforms the data such that the
data may be processed and stored by other components within the
client device 505.
[0029] The client device 505 also includes a data store 520. In
some implementations, data from the input module 510 is stored in
the data store 520. The data store 520 may be, for example, a
database that logically organizes data into a series of database
tables. The data store 520 may be a hard disk drive, non-volatile
memory (e.g., Flash memory), or another type of electronic storage
device.
[0030] The client device 505 also includes search results and
browsing data 530. The search results and browsing data 530 may
include search results responsive to a query entered by a user
using the client device 505. The search results and browsing data
530 also may include data reflecting the browsing activity of a
user reviewing the electronic search results using the client
device 505 (e.g., whether the user has accessed search results,
links selected by the user when reviewing the search results,
etc.). The data 530 may be associated with particular queries
entered using the client device 505 and may include data for many
queries entered using the client device 505. Queries may be grouped
based on search sessions to enable users to access results and
browsing data for multiple queries at the same time. In addition,
the results and browsing data 530 may include supplemental
information (e.g., clipped content, comments, etc.) added to the
electronic search results by a user reviewing the search results.
In some implementations, the results and browsing data 530 may be
received, by the client device 505, from the search provider 590,
or may be stored, at least partially, by the search provider
590.
[0031] The client device 505 also includes a processor 540. The
processor 540 may be a processor suitable for the execution of a
computer program such as a general or special purpose
microprocessor, and any one or more processors of any kind of
digital computer. Generally, a processor receives instructions and
data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The
processor 540 receives instructions and data from the components of
the client device 505 to, for example, display interfaces related
to search results and a user's review of the search results. In
some implementations, the client device 505 includes more than one
processor.
[0032] The client device 505 further includes the I/O device 550,
which is configured to allow a user selection. For example, the I/O
device 550 may be a mouse, a keyboard, a stylus, a touch screen, a
track ball, a toggle control, one or more user input buttons, a
microphone, or any other device that allows a user to input data
into the client device 505 or otherwise communicate with the client
device 505. In some implementations, the user may be a machine and
the user input may be received from an automated process running on
the machine. In other implementations, the user may be a
person.
[0033] The I/O device 550 also may include a device configured to
output electronic search results interfaces. For instance, the I/O
device 550 may include a display device configured to display
graphical user interfaces (e.g., the user interfaces shown in FIGS.
1-4, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22-24, 26-28, 30, 32, 34,
35, 38, 40, 42, 44, and 46) that enable a user to perceive
electronic search results information and enable a user to interact
with the client device 505. The I/O device 550 also may include a
speaker configured to provide audible output related to search
results information (e.g., audible electronic content or
alerts).
[0034] The client device 505 also includes a memory 560. The memory
560 may be any type of tangible machine-readable storage medium.
The memory 560 may, for example, store the data included in the
data store 520. In some implementations, the memory 560 may store
instructions that, when executed, cause the client device 505 to,
for example, process and display search results information
concurrently with electronic content.
[0035] The search system 500 also includes a network 580. The
network 580 is configured to enable exchange of electronic
communications between devices connected to the network 580. For
example, the network 50 may be configured to enable exchange of
electronic communications between the client device 505 and the
search provider 590. The network 580 may include, for example, one
or more of the Internet, Wide Area Networks (WANs), Local Area
Networks (LANs), analog or digital wired and wireless telephone
networks (e.g., a PSTN, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN),
a cellular network, and Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)), radio,
television, cable, satellite, or any other delivery or tunneling
mechanism for carrying data. Network 580 may include multiple
networks or subnetworks, each of which may include, for example, a
wired or wireless data pathway. The network 580 may include a
circuit-switched network, a packet-switched data network, or any
other network able to carry electronic communications. For example,
the network 580 may include networks based on the Internet protocol
(IP) or asynchronous transfer mode (ATM).
[0036] The search provider 590 is an electronic device configured
to execute programs and exchange communications with the client
device 505 (e.g., multiple client devices) over the network 580.
For example, the search provider 590 may be configured to execute a
program that performs searching operations. In this example, the
search provider 590 may exchange communications with the client
device 505 to receive input associated with search queries and
provide search results output to the client device 505.
[0037] Although the example client device 505 is shown as a single
integrated component, one or more of the modules and applications
included in the client device 505 may be implemented separately
from the device 505 but in communication with the device 505. For
example, the data store 520 may be implemented on a centralized
server that communicates and exchanges data with the client device
505. In this example, the search provider 590 may communicate with
the client device 505 and perform operations described throughout
the disclosure as being performed by the client device 505 or may
perform operations that assist in the client device 505 in
performing described operations.
[0038] FIGS. 6, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 25, 29, 31, 33, 36, 37, 39,
41, 43, 45, 47, and 48 illustrate example processes. The operations
of the example processes are described generally as being performed
by the search system 500. The operations may be performed
exclusively by the client device 505, may be performed exclusively
by the search provider 590, or may be performed by a combination of
the client device 505 and the search provider 590. In some
implementations, operations of the example processes may be
performed by one or more processors included in one or more
electronic devices.
[0039] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a process 600 for
displaying search results. The search system 500 accesses a list of
electronic search results that are responsive to a query entered by
a user (610). For example, the search system 500 may perform a
search of electronic content based on the query and identify a list
of electronic search results that are responsive to the query. The
search system 500 also may submit the query to a search engine and
receive a list of electronic search results identified by the
search engine.
[0040] In some implementations, the search system 500 accesses a
list of electronic search results that are displayed to the user in
a browser interface on the display device in response to the query
entered by the user. For instance, the search system 500 may access
the list of search results 205 displayed in the interface 200 in
response to user submission of a query.
[0041] The search system 500 formats the list of electronic search
results for display concurrently with electronic content linked to
by an electronic search result (620). For example, the search
system 500 formats display of the list of electronic search results
for display in a search results portion of a user interface that
may be displayed concurrently with content corresponding to a
search result. In this example, the search system 500 may reduce a
display size of search result information, remove information from
the list of search results to reduce the display size, and/or
modify information included in the list of search results to reduce
the display size. The formatting of the list of search results may
occur prior to initial presentation of the list of search results
or in response to user selection of a search result included in the
list of search results.
[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a formatted list of
electronic search results displayed concurrently with electronic
content linked to by an electronic search result. As shown in FIG.
3, the list of electronic search results 205 has been reformatted
as the list of search results 315 to reduce a size of the list of
electronic search results 205. In reformatting the list of
electronic search results 205, result description information that
is associated with the electronic search results 205 and that
describes the electronic search results has removed (e.g., the
summary, related links, relevancy ratings, and URL have been
removed) and titles of the search results have been modified (e.g.,
Search Result 1 Title has been modified to Result 1). The amount of
information removed may correspond to a size of the search results
portion 305 and preferences of the user.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 6, in response to identification of a
first search result, the search system 500 causes display of the
formatted list of search results concurrently with first electronic
content linked to by the first search result (630). The
identification of a first search result may involve user selection
of a search result (e.g., user selection of the Search Result 4 in
FIG. 2) and the formatted list of search results may be displayed
concurrently with electronic content linked to by the user-selected
search result (e.g., the Search Result 4 Content shown in FIG. 3).
In other examples, a first search result may be automatically
identified without human intervention. In these examples, when the
formatted list of search results is displayed upon initial
presentation of the list of search results, the search system 500
may identify the search result that is most relevant to the query
and the formatted list of search results may be displayed
concurrently with electronic content linked to by the search result
that is most relevant to the query (e.g., the interface 300 shown
in FIG. 3 may be displayed initially in response to a query, but
with content associated with Result 1).
[0044] In some implementations, causing display of the formatted
list of search results concurrently with first electronic content
may included segmenting a browser interface on a display device
into a search results portion and a content portion (e.g., as shown
by the difference in FIGS. 2 and 3). In these implementations, the
search results portion and the content portion may each be smaller
in size than the browser interface when displaying the list of
electronic search results initially in response to the query
entered by the user. A reformatted list of electronic search
results may be displayed in the search results portion of the
browser interface, and the first electronic content linked to by
the first search result may be displayed in the content portion of
the browser interface.
[0045] The search system 500 causes display of a displayed result
indication to indicate that the displayed first electronic content
is associated with the first search result (640). The displayed
result indication may identify a displayed representation of the
first search result in the formatted list of electronic search
results and, thereby, indicate that the first electronic content is
associated with the first search result (e.g., the displayed result
indicator 325 shown in FIG. 3). The displayed result indication may
include any type of visual indication (e.g., highlighting, a change
in color, a graphical symbol or icon, a text indication, etc.). The
displayed result indication also may be displayed in any portion of
the user interface.
[0046] The search system 500 receives user input selecting a second
search result included in the formatted list of electronic search
results that is displayed concurrently with the first electronic
content (650). For instance, the search system 500 receives a user
input command (e.g., a keyboard/keypad button press, a mouse click,
a touch screen input, etc.) that selects a second search result
included in the formatted list of electronic search results while
the formatted list of electronic search results is displayed
concurrently with content from another of the electronic search
results (e.g., user selection of Result 2 as shown in FIG. 3).
[0047] In response to receiving the user input, the search system
500 causes display, concurrently with the formatted list of
electronic search results, of second electronic content linked to
by the second search result (660). For instance, the search system
500 causes a browser to access, over a network, second electronic
content linked to by a URL of the second search result and display
the second electronic content in a content portion of the browser
(e.g., as shown in content portion 410 of FIG. 4). The search
system 500 may change display, in a content portion of a browser
interface on the display device, of the first electronic content
linked to by the first search result to the second electronic
content linked to by the second search result and may maintain
display, in a search results portion of the browser interface on
the display device, of the reformatted list of electronic search
results.
[0048] The search system 500 changes display of the displayed
result indication to indicate that the displayed second electronic
content is associated with the second search result (670). For
example, the search system 500 may update the displayed result
indication to identify a displayed representation of the second
search result in the formatted list of electronic search results
(e.g., rather than the first search result) and, thereby, indicate
that the second electronic content is associated with the second
search result (e.g., as shown by the updated displayed result
indicator 425 shown in FIG. 4). The search system 500 may change
display of the displayed result indication by removing the prior
displayed result indication and displaying a new displayed result
indication for the second search result.
[0049] FIG. 7 illustrates an interface 700 that includes a remove
interface control 710. The remove interface control 710 enables a
user to remove a search result from the list of search results 315
by selecting the remove interface control 710 when the search
result is currently selected. For instance, after a user reviews a
search result and determines that the content associated with the
search result is not relevant or redundant to the user's inquiry,
the user may use the remove interface control 710 to remove the
search result from the list 315. In this regard, the user may
reduce the number of results in the list (e.g., keep only the most
relevant results) and, thereby, may enhance convenience of the
user's further review.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 7, a user input icon 720 may be displayed
and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select the
remove interface control 710 when Result 2 is currently selected.
For example, the user input icon 720 may be positioned over the
remove interface control 710 when the user provides user input of a
selection command and content from Result 2 is currently selected.
In response to the selection, the browser may remove Result 2 from
the list of electronic search results 315.
[0051] FIG. 8 illustrates an interface 800 that may be displayed in
response to selection of a remove interface control 710 in the
interface 700. The interface 800 includes a search results portion
805 and a content portion 810, each of which has been updated based
on the removal of Result 2. For instance, the updated items in the
search results portion 805 include an updated list of search
results 815 that no longer includes Result 2, a displayed result
indicator 820, an advertisement 840, and a sponsored link 845. As
shown, the displayed result indicator 820 has been updated and now
identifies Result 3 to indicate that Result 3 is the currently
selected search result for which content is displayed. Result 3 was
automatically selected upon removal of Result 2 because Result 3
was the result immediately following Result 2 in the list of search
results 315. Other techniques may be used to automatically select a
new search result upon removal of a search result (e.g., the user's
tracked review of the search results (discussed in more detail
below) may be used to select the new search result). The
advertisement 840 and the sponsored link 845 represent a new
advertisement and a new sponsored link that have been selected
based on the selection of Result 3.
[0052] The content portion 810 displays a representation of
electronic content corresponding to a selected search result (e.g.,
Result 3). In response to the selection of Result 3 upon removal of
Result 2, the electronic content associated with Result 3 may be
accessed and displayed in the content portion 810 to replace
electronic content associated with Result 2.
[0053] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a process 900 for enabling
removal of a search result. The search system 500 determines that a
user wishes to remove an electronic search result from the
formatted list of electronic search results (910). The search
system 500 may determine that a user wishes to remove an electronic
search result based on explicit user input provided by the user.
For instance, as discussed above with respect to FIG. 7, the search
system 500 may receive user input selecting a remove interface
control or some other type of user input that explicitly identifies
a search result to remove from the list.
[0054] The search system 500 also may infer that a user wishes to
remove an electronic search result based on user input related to
the user's review of the electronic search result. For example, the
search system 500 may monitor a user's review of a search result
and determine that the user wishes to remove the search result
based on the user's review. In this example, the search system 500
may determine that a user wishes to remove a search result when the
user selects the search result, but reviews the content for a
relatively brief period of time or when the user has not selected a
displayed search result (and, perhaps, selected other results with
lower relevancy scores) for a relatively long period of time.
[0055] In response to the determination, the search system 500
removes the electronic search result from the formatted list of
electronic search results (920). The search system 500 may update
the formatted list of electronic search results to remove the
search result from the list and arrange the other search results to
account for the display area previously occupied by the removed
search result (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8). For instance,
search results included in the list lower than the removed search
result may be moved up to account for the removal of the search
result and one or more hidden search results that are responsive to
the query, but not displayed at the time of removal (e.g., the
search system 500 limits the display to the ten most relevant
results and the hidden results represent the results other than the
ten most relevant results) may be added to the list of search
results and displayed.
[0056] Based on the removal of the second search result, the search
system 500 automatically, without human intervention, selects a
different search result included in the formatted list of
electronic search results (930). For instance, the search system
500 selects a different search result included the formatted list
to replace the removed search result as the currently displayed
search result. As shown in FIG. 8, the different search result may
be the result (e.g., Result 3) immediately following the removed
search result (e.g., Result 2) in the list of search results. In
some implementations, the search system 500 may automatically
select a different search result based on the user's tracked review
of the search results. In these implementations, the search system
500 may select the next result in the list of search results that
has not been reviewed by the user.
[0057] In response to the selection, the search system 500 causes
display, concurrently with the formatted list of electronic search
results, of different electronic content linked to by the different
search result (940). For instance, the search system 500 causes a
browser to access, over a network, different electronic content
linked to by a URL of the different search result and display the
different electronic content in a content portion of the browser
(e.g., as shown in content portion 810 of FIG. 8). The search
system 500 may change display, in a content portion of a browser
interface on a display device, of the electronic content linked to
by the removed search result to different electronic content linked
to by the different search result and may display, in a search
results portion of the browser interface on the display device, the
updated list of electronic search results after removal of the
removed search result.
[0058] The search system 500 changes display of the displayed
result indication to indicate that the different electronic content
is associated with the different search result (950). For example,
the search system 500 may update the displayed result indication to
identify a displayed representation of the different search result
in the formatted list of electronic search results and, thereby,
indicate that the different electronic content is associated with
the different search result (e.g., as shown by the updated
displayed result indicator 820 shown in FIG. 8). The search system
500 may change display of the displayed result indication by
removing the prior displayed result indication and displaying a new
displayed result indication for the different search result.
[0059] FIG. 10 illustrates an interface 1000 that enables a user to
perceive more detailed summary information for a search result. As
shown in FIG. 10, a user input icon 1010 may be displayed and
manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to indicate a desire to
receive more detailed summary information related to a search
result (e.g., Result 3) included in the list of search results 815.
For example, the user input icon 1010 may be positioned over Result
3 in the list 815 and, thereby, cause the display of a pop-up
message 1030 that includes more detailed summary information for
Result 3. The more detailed summary information may include any
combination of the summary information shown for Result 3 in the
interface 200 (e.g., a more detailed title, a descriptive summary,
related links, relevancy ratings, and a URL). The pop-up message
1030 may be displayed in response to a user selection (e.g., mouse
click) when the user input icon 1010 is positioned over Result 3 or
may be displayed in response to a user causing the user input icon
1010 to hover over Result 3 for more than a predetermined threshold
amount of time.
[0060] Although FIG. 10 illustrates more information about the
search result that is currently displayed, the more detailed
information may be displayed for any of the results included in the
list. For instance, in response to the user input icon 1010 being
hovered over Result 6 while the Search Result 3 Content is
displayed, the pop-up message 1030 may include summary information
for Result 6 without retrieving electronic content linked by Result
6. This may enhance a user's ability to choose which search result
to review next by providing more information to user while
maintaining the presently selected search result.
[0061] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a process 1100 for
displaying more detailed summary information of a search result.
The search system 500 receives user input that identifies a
particular electronic search result included in the formatted list
of electronic search results (1110). For instance, the search
system 500 may receive user input positioning a user input icon
over a particular electronic search result (e.g., a user may hover
a mouse icon over the particular result). The search system 500
also may receive user input selecting a particular electronic
search result with a user input command (e.g., mouse click).
[0062] The search system 500 determines that the user input
indicates a desire to receive more information about the particular
search result than is displayed in the formatted list of electronic
search results without retrieving the content linked to by the
particular search result (1120). For instance, the search system
500 may determine that a user wishes to retrieve and display
content associated with a particular search result when the user
selects (e.g., clicks on) the particular search result, but may
determine that a user wishes to display more information about the
particular search result while maintaining the presently displayed
content when the user causes a user input icon to hover over the
particular search result for more than a predetermined threshold
amount of time.
[0063] The search system 500 may use other distinct inputs to
enable a user to distinguish between a desire to retrieve content
associated with a search result or, instead, simply display more
detailed information for the search result. For example, the search
system 500 may retrieve content associated with a search result in
response to a left click of a mouse, but may display more detailed
summary information for the particular search result in response to
a right click of a mouse. The search system 500 may retrieve
content associated with a search result in response to a selection
of a first interface control (e.g., a retrieve content button), but
may display more detailed summary information for the particular
search result in response to selection of a second interface
control (e.g., a show summary button).
[0064] In response to the determination, the search system 500
accesses summary information related to the particular search
result (1130). The summary information may be more detailed than
information displayed in the formatted list. The search system 500
may access the summary information from local electronic storage or
may receive, over a network, the summary information from a remote
device (e.g., a search engine).
[0065] The search system 500 causes display, concurrently with the
formatted list and electronic content linked to by a search result,
of a pop-up message that includes the accessed summary information
(1140). For instance, the search system 500 may display a pop-up
window that includes the accessed summary information. The pop-up
window may be displayed over the formatted list of search results
and electronic content, while the formatted list of search results
and electronic content are maintained in the display in the
background. FIG. 10 shows an example of a pop-up message 1030 that
includes summary information.
[0066] FIG. 12 illustrates an interface 1200 that includes a clip
interface control 1210. The clip interface control 1210 may be an
additional control added to a chrome portion of a browser as a user
reviews search results. Adding the clip interface control 1210 to
the chrome portion of the browser may enhance the functionality of
the browser and may provide more area in the search results portion
805 for search results information and other controls.
[0067] The clip interface control 1210 enables a user to clip a
portion of the content displayed in the content portion 1210. For
instance, as a user reviews content corresponding to a search
result, the user may determine that a portion of the content
corresponding to the search result is particularly relevant to the
user and the user wishes to clip the portion of the content.
Accordingly, the user may provide user input that identifies the
relevant portion of the content and select the clip interface
control 1210 to perform a clip operation.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 12, a user may identify portions of the
Search Result 3 Content that the user finds particularly relevant.
For instance, the user may select "Image 1" 1220 as an image within
the Search Result 3 Content that the user wishes to clip and
highlight the text "TextTextText" 1230 as text within the Search
Result 3 Content that the user wishes to clip. After identifying
"Image 1" 1220 and "TextTextText" 1230, a user input icon 1240 may
be displayed and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to
select the clip interface control 1210. For example, the user input
icon 1240 may be positioned over the clip interface control 1210
when the user provides user input of a selection command and, in
response to the selection, the identified portion (i.e., "Image 1"
1220 and "TextTextText" 1230) of the Search Result 3 Content may be
clipped (e.g., extracted from the Search Result 3 Content and
stored in electronic storage) and associated with Result 3.
[0069] FIG. 13 illustrates an interface 1300 that may be displayed
based on selection of a clip interface control 1210 in the
interface 1200. The interface 1300 includes an update to the search
results portion 805. Specifically, the search results portion 805
has been updated to include a clipped content indicator 1310
displayed in association with Result 3. The clipped content
indicator 1310 provides a visual indication to a user that a
portion of the content corresponding to Result 3 has been clipped.
In addition, the clipped content indicator 1310 may be selectable
to cause a display of the portion of the content corresponding to
Result 3 that has been clipped. For instance, as shown, a user
input icon 1320 may be displayed and manipulated by a user (e.g.,
using a mouse) to select (e.g., a mouse click, hover over, etc.)
the clipped content indicator 1310. In response to the selection, a
pop-up window 1330 is displayed that includes the portion of the
content corresponding to Result 3 that has been clipped (i.e.,
"Image 1" 1220 and "TextTextText" 1230). The clipped content
indicator 1310 may be persistently displayed in the search results
portion 805 as the user reviews the search results. In this regard,
as the user selects search results other than Result 3 and causes
display of content corresponding to the other search results, the
clipped content indicator 1310 remains displayed in the search
results portion 805 and may be selected to cause a display of the
portion of the content corresponding to Result 3 that has been
clipped while the content corresponding to the other search results
is displayed in the content portion 810. As such, the user may be
able to quickly review and remind himself of the relevant content
from Result 3 while reviewing the other search results without
having to access the Search Result 3 Content and re-review the
content to identify the relevant portion.
[0070] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a process 1400 for
associating clipped content with a search result. The search system
500 receives user input identifying a subset of electronic content
linked to by a search result (1410). For instance, the search
system 500 receives a user selection of a portion of the electronic
content corresponding to a search result. The portion of the
content may be text and/or an image and the user selection may be
input that causes visual distinction of the identified content the
user desires to clip.
[0071] The search system 500 receives a clip command indicating a
desire to clip the identified subset of the electronic content
(1420). For instance, as discussed above with respect to FIG. 12,
the search system 500 may receive user input selecting a clip
interface control or some other type of user input (e.g., an oral
clip instruction, a gesture input, etc.) that explicitly indicates
a desire to clip the identified content.
[0072] In response to receiving the clip command, the search system
500 clips the identified subset of the electronic content (1430).
The search system 500 may clip the identified subset of the
electronic content by extracting the identified subset of the
electronic content from the content (e.g., electronic document)
corresponding to the search result and stores the extracted content
in electronic storage (e.g., local electronic storage at a client
and/or remote electronic storage at a host). The search system 500
also may store clip information that identifies the user associated
with the clipped content and the search result associated with the
clipped content. The search system 500 may use the clip information
to later control display of the clipped content to the appropriate
user (e.g., different users may clip different portions of the
content) and in association with the appropriate search result
(e.g., content may be clipped from content corresponding to each of
multiple different search results).
[0073] The search system 500 causes display of a graphical clip
indicator to indicate that the search result in the formatted list
is associated with clipped content from the electronic content
linked to by the search result (1440). For example, the search
system 500 displays a graphical clip indicator (e.g., the clipped
content indicator 1310) adjacent to the search result in the
formatted list (e.g., Result 3) that is associated with the clipped
content. The graphical clip indicator may include any type of
visual indication (e.g., highlighting, a change in color, a
graphical symbol or icon, a text indication, etc.). The graphical
clip indicator also may be displayed in any portion of the user
interface.
[0074] The search system 500 receives user selection of the
graphical clip indicator (1450). For instance, the search system
500 may receive a user input command (e.g., a keyboard/keypad
button press, a mouse click, a touch screen input, etc.) that
selects a graphical clip indicator while the formatted list of
electronic search results is displayed concurrently with content
from an electronic search result. The concurrently displayed
content may be content from the electronic search result associated
with the clipped content or may be content from a different
electronic search result. The search system 500 also may receive
user input causing a user input icon to hover over the graphical
clip indicator.
[0075] In response to receiving the user selection of the graphical
clip indicator, the search system 500 accesses the identified
subset of the electronic content clipped from the electronic
content linked to by the search result (1460). The search system
500 may access the identified subset of the electronic content from
local electronic storage at a client device or from remote
electronic storage at a host device. The search system 500 may
identify the appropriate content based on the user providing the
selection and/or the search result associated with the graphical
clip indicator selected. For instance, the search system 500 may
use identification information of the user providing the selection
and/or identification information of the search result associated
with the graphical clip indicator to index a repository of stored
clipped content and identify the proper clipped content associated
with the graphical clip indicator.
[0076] The search system 500 causes display, concurrently with the
formatted list, of a pop-up interface that includes the identified
subset of the electronic content clipped from the electronic
content linked to by the search result (1470). For instance, the
search system 500 may display a pop-up window that includes the
accessed clipped content. The pop-up window may be displayed over
the formatted list of search results and electronic content, while
the formatted list of search results and electronic content are
maintained in the display in the background. FIG. 13 shows an
example of a pop-up window 1330 that includes clipped content.
[0077] FIG. 15 illustrates an interface 1500 that includes a search
result notification 1520. The search result notification 1520
provides a notification to a user that a link, displayed within
content displayed in the content portion 810 (e.g., content linked
to by a first search result), corresponds to a search result
included in a list of search results (e.g., a second search result
that is different than the first search result). As shown in FIG.
15, a user input icon 1510 may be displayed and manipulated by a
user (e.g., using a mouse) to indicate interest in the link
"LINK_TO_Result 5" displayed in the Search Result 3 Content. For
example, the user input icon 1510 may be positioned over the link
"LINK_TO_Result 5" to indicate interest in the link. In this
example, the link "LINK_TO_Result 5" is a link to the same content
linked to by Result 5 included in the list of search results.
Accordingly, in response to the user input icon 1510 being
positioned over the link "LINK_TO_Result 5", the search result
notification 1520 is displayed to indicate to the user that the
link corresponds to Result 5 included in the list of search
results. By providing the user with an indication that the link
corresponds to Result 5, the user may be able to make a more
informed decision as to whether the user wishes to select the link.
For instance, when the user has not reviewed Result 5, the user may
be more inclined to select the link because the user knows that the
link corresponds to content identified as being relevant to the
search query entered by the user. Alternatively, when the user has
reviewed Result 5, the user may be less inclined to select the link
because the user has already reviewed the content corresponding to
the link. This may save the user time because the user may not
access and review content corresponding to the link to only find
out that the user has already reviewed the content.
[0078] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a process 1600 for
displaying a search result notification. The search system 500
identifies a link included in electronic content linked to by a
search result (1610). For instance, the search system 500 may scan
an electronic document and electronically identify links (e.g.,
hyperlinks) included in the electronic document. The search system
500 may identify one or more links within an electronic document in
response to the electronic document being accessed or may identify
one or more links within an electronic document in response to
events that occur during a user's review of the electronic document
(e.g., when the user positions an input icon over the link).
[0079] The search system 500 compares the link to electronic search
results included in the formatted list of electronic search results
(1620). The search system 500 may compare a network address (e.g.,
a URL) associated with the identified link to network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the electronic search results included
in the formatted list. In some implementations, the search system
500 may access content linked to by the link (e.g., without
displaying the content), access content linked to by the electronic
search results (e.g., without displaying the content), and compare
the accessed content.
[0080] Based on comparison results, the search system 500
determines whether the link corresponds to a search result included
in the formatted list of electronic search results (1630). For
instance, when the search system 500 compares the network address
(e.g., the URL) associated with the identified link to network
addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with the electronic search
results included in the formatted list, the search system 500
determines whether the network address (e.g., the URL) associated
with the identified link matches any of the network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the electronic search results included
in the formatted list. When the search system 500 compares the
content linked to by the identified link to the content linked to
by the electronic search results included in the formatted list,
the search system 500 determines whether the content linked to by
the identified link matches content linked to by any of the search
results included in the list.
[0081] The search system 500 receives user input indicating
interest in the link included in the electronic content linked to
by the search result (1640). For instance, the search system 500
may receive a user input command (e.g., a keyboard/keypad button
press, a mouse click, a touch screen input, etc.) that selects the
link. The search system 500 also may receive user input causing a
user input icon to hover over the link to indicate interest in the
link.
[0082] Based on the determination and the receipt of the user
input, the search system 500 causes display, concurrently with the
formatted list and the electronic content, of a pop-up interface
that indicates that the link corresponds to a search result in the
formatted list and that identifies the search result to which the
link corresponds (1650). The search system 500 may display the
pop-up window over the formatted list of search results and
electronic content, while the formatted list of search results and
electronic content are maintained in the display in the background.
The search system 500 may display the pop-up window proximate to
the link, proximate to the search result to which the link
corresponds, or in any other portion of the interface. FIG. 15
shows an example of a pop-up window (e.g., the search result
notification 1520) that is displayed proximate to the link.
[0083] FIG. 17 illustrates an interface 1700 that may be displayed
based on selection of a link to a search result included in content
of another search result. For instance, the interface 1700 may be
displayed in response to selection of the link "LINK_TO_Result 5"
displayed in the Search Result 3 Content shown in the interface
1500. The interface 1700 includes a search results portion 1705 and
a content portion 1710, each of which has been updated based on the
selection of the link to content associated with Result 5 displayed
in the content associated with Result 3. For instance, the updated
items in the search results portion 1705 include a displayed result
indicator 1720, an advertisement 1740, and a sponsored link 1745.
As shown, the displayed result indicator 1720 has been updated and
now identifies Result 5 to indicate that Result 5 is the currently
selected search result for which content is displayed. The second
advertisement 1740 and the sponsored link 1745 represent a new
advertisement and a new sponsored link that have been selected
based on the user's selection of a link that links to content
associated with Result 5.
[0084] The content portion 1710 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to Result 5). In response to the selection of link,
the electronic content linked to the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to Result 5) may be accessed and displayed in the
content portion 1710. Accordingly, the interface 1700 may be
similar to an interface that would have been displayed in response
to user selection of the Result 5 in the formatted list of search
results.
[0085] The interface 1700 also includes a graphical indication 1730
that the currently selected search result (e.g., the Result 5) was
linked to from content corresponding to another search result
(e.g., the Result 3). The graphical indication 1730 may provide a
visually perceivable indication that the currently displayed
content and/or currently selected search result was linked to from
content corresponding to a previously selected search result.
[0086] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a process 1800 for
displaying an indication that a search result was linked to by
electronic content associated with another search result. The
search system 500 receives user selection of a link included in
electronic content linked to by a first search result (1810). For
instance, the search system 500 may receive a user input command
(e.g., a keyboard/keypad button press, a mouse click, a touch
screen input, etc.) that selects a link included in electronic
content linked to by a first search result.
[0087] The search system 500 compares the link to electronic search
results included in the formatted list of electronic search results
(1820). The search system 500 may compare a network address (e.g.,
a URL) associated with the selected link to network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the electronic search results included
in the formatted list. In some implementations, the search system
500 may access content linked to by the selected link (e.g.,
without displaying the content), access content linked to by the
electronic search results (e.g., without displaying the content),
and compare the accessed content.
[0088] Based on comparison results, the search system 500
determines that the link corresponds to a second search result
included in the formatted list of electronic search results (1830).
For instance, when the search system 500 compares the network
address (e.g., the URL) associated with the identified link to
network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with the electronic
search results included in the formatted list, the search system
500 determines whether the network address (e.g., the URL)
associated with the identified link matches any of the network
addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with the electronic search
results included in the formatted list. When the search system 500
compares the content linked to by the identified link to the
content linked to by the electronic search results included in the
list, the search system 500 determines whether the content linked
to by the identified link matches content linked to by any of the
search results included in the list.
[0089] In response to the determination, the search system 500
causes display, concurrently with the formatted list of electronic
search results, of second electronic content linked to by the
second search result (1840). For instance, the search system 500
causes a browser to access, over a network, second electronic
content linked to by a URL of the second search result (e.g., the
same URL as the selected link) and display the second electronic
content in a content portion of the browser (e.g., as shown in
content portion 1710 of FIG. 17). The search system 500 may change
display, in a content portion of a browser interface on the display
device, of first electronic content linked to by the first search
result to the second electronic content linked to by the second
search result and may maintain display, in a search results portion
of the browser interface on the display device, of the formatted
list of electronic search results.
[0090] The search system 500 changes display of the displayed
result indication to indicate that the second electronic content is
associated with the second search result (1850). For example, the
search system 500 may update the displayed result indication to
identify a displayed representation of the second search result in
the formatted list of electronic search results (e.g., rather than
the first search result) and, thereby, indicate that the second
electronic content is associated with the second search result
(e.g., as shown by the updated displayed result indicator 1720
shown in FIG. 17). The search system 500 may change display of the
displayed result indication by removing the prior displayed result
indication and displaying a new displayed result indication for the
second search result.
[0091] The search system 500 causes display, concurrently with the
formatted list and the second electronic content, of a graphical
indication that indicates that the second search result was linked
to from the first search result (1860). The search system 500 may
display the graphical indication over the formatted list of search
results and electronic content, while the formatted list of search
results and electronic content are maintained in the display in the
background. In some implementations, the search system 500 may
display a pop-up window (or other indicator) in a search results
portion of an interface, proximate to the search result currently
selected (e.g., the search result linked to), proximate to the
search result previously selected (e.g., the search result linked
from), or in any other portion of the interface. FIG. 17 shows an
example of a graphical indication 1730 that is displayed in a
search results portion.
[0092] Referring again to FIG. 17, the interface 1700 includes a
comment interface control 1750. The comment interface control 1750
enables a user to add a comment to a search result from the list of
search results 815 by selecting comment interface control 1750 when
the search result is currently selected. For instance, after a user
reviews a search result and determines that the user wishes to add
a comment related to the user's review of the search result, the
user may use the comment interface control 1750 to add a comment to
the search result from the list 815. In this regard, the user may
store comment information associated with a search result to
maintain a record of the user's review and quickly perceive the
user's thinking when the user previously reviewed the search
result.
[0093] As shown in FIG. 17, a user input icon 1760 may be displayed
and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select the
comment interface control 1750 when Result 5 is selected. For
example, the user input icon 1760 may be positioned over the
comment interface control 1750 when the user provides user input of
a selection command.
[0094] FIG. 19 illustrates a comment interface 1900 that may be
displayed based on selection of a comment interface control 1750
included in the interface 1700. The interface 1900 includes a
comment input field 1910 and a save control 1920. The comment input
field 1910 enables a user to enter a comment that includes one or
more words or phrases that define the user's comment on a search
result. When a user selects the save control 1920 using, for
example, an input device 1930, the search system saves the comment
entered into the comment input field 1910 in association with the
appropriate search result.
[0095] FIG. 20 illustrates an interface 2000 that may be displayed
based on entry of a comment in connection with a search result. The
interface 2000 includes an update to the search results portion
1705. Specifically, the search results portion 1705 has been
updated to include a comment indicator 2010 displayed in
association with Result 5. The comment indicator 2010 provides a
visual indication to a user that Result 5 is associated with a
comment. In addition, the comment indicator 2010 may be selectable
to cause a display of the comment corresponding to Result 5. For
instance, as shown, a user input icon 2020 may be displayed and
manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select (e.g., a
mouse click, hover over, etc.) the comment indicator 2010. In
response to the selection, a pop-up window 2030 is displayed that
includes the comment corresponding to Result 5 that has been
entered by a user (i.e., "Relates to Topic 1. Great result."). The
comment indicator 2010 may be persistently displayed in the search
results portion 1705 as the user reviews the search results. In
this regard, as the user selects search results other than Result 5
and causes display of content corresponding to the other search
results, the comment indicator 2010 remains displayed in the search
results portion 1705 and may be selected to cause a display of the
comment corresponding to Result 5 while the content corresponding
to the other search results is displayed in the content portion
1710. As such, the user may be able to quickly review the comment
corresponding to Result 5 while reviewing the other search results
without having to access the Search Result 5 Content and re-review
the content.
[0096] FIG. 21 illustrates an example of a process 2100 for
associating a comment with a search result. The search system 500
receives a comment command indicating a desire to add a comment
associated with a search result (2110). For instance, as discussed
above with respect to FIG. 20, the search system 500 may receive
user input selecting a comment interface control or some other type
of user input (e.g., an oral comment instruction, a gesture input,
etc.) that explicitly indicates a desire to add a comment for a
search result.
[0097] The search system 500 receives user input defining the
comment to associate with the search result (2120). The search
system 500 may receive user input in a text entry field in which
the user enters one or more words or phrases that define the
comment. The search system 500 also may display an interface
control with predefined comments and the user may select a
predefined comment to add to the search result. The search system
500 further may receive audible user input (e.g., through a
microphone) defining the comment. When the search system 500
receives audible user input, the search system 500 may use speech
recognition processes to convert the audible input into text and
use the text as the comment. Alternatively, the search system 500
may store the audible input as the comment and reproduce the
audible input (e.g., using a speaker) when the user later selects
the comment.
[0098] The search system 500 stores, in electronic storage, the
comment in association with the search result (2130). The search
system 500 may store the comment in local electronic storage at a
client and/or remote electronic storage at a host. The search
system 500 also may store comment information that identifies the
user associated with the comment and the search result associated
with the comment. The search system 500 may use the comment
information to later control display of the comment to the
appropriate user (e.g., different users may add different comments)
and in association with the appropriate search result (e.g.,
comments may be added for each of multiple different search
results).
[0099] The search system 500 causes display of a graphical comment
indicator to indicate that the search result in the formatted list
is associated with a comment (2140). For example, the search system
500 displays a graphical comment indicator (e.g., the comment
indicator 2010) adjacent to the search result in the formatted list
(e.g., Result 5) that is associated with the comment. The graphical
comment indicator may include any type of visual indication (e.g.,
highlighting, a change in color, a graphical symbol or icon, a text
indication, etc.). The graphical comment indicator also may be
displayed in any portion of the user interface.
[0100] The search system 500 receives user selection of the
graphical comment indicator (2150). For instance, the search system
500 may receive a user input command (e.g., a keyboard/keypad
button press, a mouse click, a touch screen input, etc.) that
selects a graphical comment indicator while the formatted list of
electronic search results is displayed concurrently with content
from an electronic search result. The concurrently displayed
content may be content from the electronic search result associated
with the comment or may be content from a different electronic
search result. The search system 500 also may receive user input
causing a user input icon to hover over the graphical comment
indicator.
[0101] The search system 500 accesses, from electronic storage, the
comment stored in association with the search result (2160). The
search system 500 may access the comment from local electronic
storage at a client device or from remote electronic storage at a
host device. The search system 500 may identify the appropriate
comment based on the user providing the selection and/or the search
result associated with the graphical comment indicator selected.
For instance, the search system 500 may use identification
information of the user providing the selection and/or
identification information of the search result associated with the
graphical comment indicator to index a repository of stored
comments and identify the proper comment associated with the
graphical comment indicator.
[0102] The search system 500 causes display, concurrently with the
formatted list of electronic search results, of a pop-up interface
that includes the comment (2170). For instance, the search system
500 may display a pop-up window that includes the accessed comment.
The pop-up window may be displayed over the formatted list of
search results and electronic content, while the formatted list of
search results and electronic content are maintained in the display
in the background. FIG. 20 shows an example of a pop-up window 2030
that includes a comment.
[0103] FIGS. 22 to 24 illustrate examples of user interfaces that
are updated to include a list of search results with at least one
sub-element. Referring to FIG. 22, an interface 2200 displays
content corresponding to Result 5 in the formatted list of search
results. The content corresponding to Result 5 includes a link
"LINK 1" to other content, and a user may be interested in
accessing the content linked to by "LINK 1." A user input icon 2210
may be displayed and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to
select "LINK 1" when viewing the content corresponding to Result 5.
For example, the user input icon 2210 may be positioned over "LINK
1" when the user provides user input of a selection command.
[0104] FIG. 23 illustrates an interface 2300 that may be displayed
based on selection of a link included in content of a search
result. For instance, the interface 2300 may be displayed in
response to selection of the link "LINK1" displayed in the Search
Result 5 Content shown in the interface 2200. The interface 2300
includes a search results portion 2305 and a content portion 2310,
each of which has been updated based on the selection of the link
displayed in the content associated with Result 5. For instance,
the updated items in the search results portion 2305 include an
updated list of search results 2315, a displayed result indicator
2320, an advertisement 2340, and a sponsored link 2345. As shown,
the updated list of search results 2315 includes a sub-element
(e.g., LINK 1). The sub-element represents a link (of any type of
media) that was selected by a user as the user was reviewing search
results and is selectable by the user to access content
corresponding to the link (e.g., LINK1). The sub-element (e.g.,
LINK 1) is displayed as a sub-element of Result 5 because the link
corresponding to the sub-element (e.g., LINK 1) was selected when
the user was reviewing Result 5. In this regard, the history of a
user's browsing when reviewing search results is tracked and
displayed in the search results portion 2305 of the interface
2300.
[0105] The displayed result indicator 2320 has been updated and now
identifies LINK1 to indicate that the currently displayed content
corresponds to LINK1. A control that enables a user to minimize or
expand the tracked browsing (e.g., links selected) from Result 5 is
displayed to enable a user to control whether or not the tracked
browsing is displayed. The second advertisement 2340 and the
sponsored link 2345 represent a new advertisement and a new
sponsored link that have been selected based on the user's
selection of the link "LINK1" included in the content associated
with Result 5.
[0106] The content portion 2310 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to LINK1). In response to the selection of LINK1, the
electronic content linked to the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to LINK1) may be accessed and displayed in the
content portion 2310.
[0107] The content corresponding to "LINK 1" includes a link
("Media_File") to other content, and a user may be interested in
accessing the content linked to by the "Media_File" link. A user
input icon 2350 may be displayed and manipulated by a user (e.g.,
using a mouse) to select the "Media_File" link when viewing the
content corresponding to LINK 1. For example, the user input icon
2350 may be positioned over "Media_File" when the user provides
user input of a selection command. The "Media_File" may link to an
audio and/or video file that is displayed to a user upon selection
of the "Media_File" link.
[0108] FIG. 24 illustrates an interface 2400 that may be displayed
based on selection of a link included in content of a search
result. For instance, the interface 2400 may be displayed in
response to selection of the link "Media_File" displayed in the
LINK1 Content shown in the interface 2300. The interface 2400
includes a search results portion 2405 and a content portion 2410,
each of which has been updated based on the selection of the link
displayed in the content associated with LINK1. For instance, the
updated items in the search results portion 2405 include an updated
list of search results 2415, a displayed result indicator 2420, an
advertisement 2440, and a sponsored link 2445. As shown, the
updated list of search results 2415 includes a sub-element (e.g.,
Media File). The sub-element represents a link (of any type of
media) that was selected by a user as the user was reviewing search
results and is selectable by the user to access content
corresponding to the link (e.g., Media File). The sub-element
(e.g., Media File) is displayed as a sub-element of LINK1 because
the link corresponding to the sub-element (e.g., Media File) was
selected when the user was reviewing LINK1. In this regard, the
history of a user's browsing when reviewing search results is
tracked and displayed in the search results portion 2405 of the
interface 2400. The user may select a tracked link (e.g., a
sub-element) displayed in the updated list of search results 2415
to access content corresponding to the tracked link while content
from another search result or another link is being displayed.
Accordingly, a displayed sub-element may be similar to a displayed
search result in the updated list of search results 2415.
[0109] The displayed result indicator 2420 has been updated and now
identifies Media File to indicate that the currently displayed
content corresponds to Media File. A control that enables a user to
minimize or expand the tracked browsing (e.g., links selected) from
LINK1 is displayed to enable a user to control whether or not the
tracked browsing is displayed. The second advertisement 2440 and
the sponsored link 2445 represent a new advertisement and a new
sponsored link that have been selected based on the user's
selection of the link "Media_File" included in the content
associated with LINK1.
[0110] The content portion 2410 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected link (e.g., a video
corresponding to Media File). In response to the selection of the
link "Media_File," the electronic content linked to by the selected
link (e.g., the video corresponding to Media File) may be accessed
and displayed in the content portion 2410. The content
corresponding to the selected link (e.g., the video corresponding
to Media File) also may be downloaded and stored in local storage
to enable faster browsing of the content at a later time.
Downloading the content also may enable the user to retrieve the
content at a later time if the link changes or the content is
removed, replaced, updated, changed, etc. In this case, the
downloaded content may be accessed when the user selects the
sub-element Media File.
[0111] FIG. 25 illustrates an example of a process 2500 for
updating a list of search results to include selected links as
sub-elements in the list of search results. The search system 500
receives user selection of a link included in electronic content
linked to by a search result (2510). For instance, the search
system 500 may receive a user input command (e.g., a
keyboard/keypad button press, a mouse click, a touch screen input,
etc.) that selects a link included in electronic content linked to
by a search result.
[0112] In response to user selection of the link, the search system
500 updates the formatted list of search results by adding the
selected link to the formatted list of search results as a
sub-element of the search result (2520). The search system 500 may
identify the search result corresponding to content in which the
link was included and include a representation of the selected link
as a sub-element of the identified search result. The search system
500 may display the sub-element in a manner which distinguishes it
from the search results included in the list (e.g., at an offset
position, in a different color/font, etc.). The representation of
the sub-element may be text of the link selected, text of a title
(e.g., a web page title) of the link, or any other type of text
and/or graphic that may be used to identify the sub-element. The
sub-element also may be selectable to enable a user to access
content corresponding to the sub-element by selecting the
sub-element. The sub-elements displayed in the list may be
persistent and viewed while the user views other search results or
other links. The sub-elements also may be minimized and expanded
automatically and/or manually as a user reviews the search results.
A user further may be able to manipulate the tracked sub-elements
in the list of search results (e.g., remove sub-elements, promote
sub-elements in the list, reorganize the sub-elements, associate a
sub-element with a different search result, etc.).
[0113] The search system 500 causes display, concurrently with
electronic content linked to by the selected link, of the updated
list of search results, which displays the selected link as a
sub-element of the search result (2530). For instance, the search
system 500 may access and display electronic content linked to by
the selected link in a content portion of a browser interface and
may display the updated list of search results in a search results
portion of the browser interface. FIGS. 23 and 24 display
interfaces 2300 and 2400, respectively, which display, concurrently
with electronic content linked to by a selected link, an updated
list of search results, which displays the selected link as a
sub-element of a search result.
[0114] Referring again to FIG. 24, the interface 2400 includes a
back interface control 250 that is part of a browser interface and
has functionality defined by the browser. As shown in FIG. 24, a
user input icon 2450 may be displayed and manipulated by a user
(e.g., using a mouse) to select the back interface control 250 when
the Media File link is selected. For example, the user input icon
2450 may be positioned over the back interface control 250 when the
user provides user input of a selection command.
[0115] FIG. 26 illustrates an interface 2600 that may be displayed
based on user selection of a back interface control in the
interface 2400. The interface 2600 includes a search results
portion 2605 and a content portion 2610, each of which has been
updated based on the selection of the back interface control 250.
For instance, the updated items in the search results portion 2605
include an updated list of search results 2615, a displayed result
indicator 2620, an expansion control 2630, an advertisement 1740,
and a sponsored link 1745. As shown, the sub-element Media File
from the interface 2400 has been automatically minimized without
human intervention in the updated list of search results 2615 and
the selected result has been returned to the search result (e.g.,
Result 5) from which the tracked browsing initiated. Accordingly,
the functionality of the back browser control 250 has been
modified. For instance, the back browser control 250 may cause the
browser to return to the most recently selected search result
(e.g., Result 5) or may cause the browser to return to the search
result (e.g., Result 5) at a top of a list of a tracked link being
displayed when the back interface control was selected. In other
implementations, the functionality of the back interface control
250 may remain the same and the interface 2600 may be displayed
when the back interface control 250 is selected twice after display
of the interface 2400.
[0116] The displayed result indicator 2620 has been updated and now
identifies Result 5 to indicate that the currently displayed
content corresponds to Result 5. A control 2630 that enables a user
to minimize or expand the tracked browsing (e.g., links selected)
from LINK1 is displayed to enable a user to control whether or not
the tracked browsing is displayed. As such, the sub-elements (e.g.,
tracked links) from the content corresponding to Result 5 (e.g., a
first level of tracked browsing) remains in the display and
additional sub-elements (e.g., tracked links) are automatically
minimized (e.g., hidden, reduced in size, reduced in focus, etc.)
from display. By automatically minimizing at least some of the
tracked browsing, the user may be able to focus on the higher level
items included in the list of search results and, if desired, view
additional tracked browsing using the control 2630. In some
examples, all of the tracked browsing associated with Result 5 may
be minimized in the interface 2600. The second advertisement 1740
and the sponsored link 1745 represent the advertisement and the
sponsored link that correspond to Result 5 and were previously
displayed. The content portion 2610 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to Result 5). In response to the selection of the
back interface control 250, the electronic content linked to by
Result 5 may be accessed (e.g., from local storage, over a network,
etc.) and displayed in the content portion 2610. The content
corresponding to Result 5 includes a link "LINK 2" to other
content, and a user may be interested in accessing the content
linked to by "LINK 2." A user input icon 2640 may be displayed and
manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select "LINK 2" when
viewing the content corresponding to Result 5. For example, the
user input icon 2640 may be positioned over "LINK 1" when the user
provides user input of a selection command.
[0117] FIG. 27 illustrates an interface 2700 that may be displayed
based on user selection of a link 2640 (e.g., LINK 2) in the
interface 2600. The interface 2700 includes a search results
portion 2705 and a content portion 2710, each of which has been
updated based on the selection of the link displayed in the content
associated with Result 5. For instance, the updated items in the
search results portion 2705 include an updated list of search
results 2715, a displayed result indicator 2720, an advertisement
2740, and a sponsored link 2745. As shown, the updated list of
search results 2715 includes a second sub-element (e.g., LINK 2).
The second sub-element represents a second link (of any type of
media) that was selected by a user as the user was reviewing search
results and is selectable by the user to access content
corresponding to the second link (e.g., LINK 2). The second
sub-element (e.g., LINK 2) is displayed as a second sub-element of
Result 5 because the link corresponding to the second sub-element
(e.g., LINK 2) was selected when the user was reviewing Result 5
and was the second link from the content corresponding to Result 5
that the user selected (e.g., LINK 1 was the first link selected).
In this regard, the history of a user's browsing when reviewing
search results is tracked and displayed in the search results
portion 2705 of the interface 2700. The tracked history shows the
links selected and an order of a selection.
[0118] The displayed result indicator 2720 has been updated and now
identifies LINK2 to indicate that the currently displayed content
corresponds to LINK2. A control that enables a user to minimize or
expand the tracked browsing (e.g., links selected) from Result 5
remains displayed to enable a user to control whether or not the
tracked browsing is displayed. The second advertisement 2740 and
the sponsored link 2745 represent a new advertisement and a new
sponsored link that have been selected based on the user's
selection of the link "LINK2" included in the content associated
with Result 5.
[0119] The content portion 2710 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to LINK2). In response to the selection of LINK2, the
electronic content linked to by the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to LINK2) may be accessed and displayed in the
content portion 2710.
[0120] As shown in FIG. 27, a user input icon 2750 may be displayed
and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select a search
result included in the list of search results 2715. For example,
the user input icon 2750 may be positioned over Result 1 when the
user provides user input of a selection command. In this example,
the user input results in selection of Result 1. In response to the
selection, the browser may access electronic content associated
with the Result 1 and update a display based on the selection.
[0121] FIG. 28 illustrates an interface 2800 that may be displayed
based on user selection of a search result (e.g., Result 1) in the
interface 2700. The interface 2800 includes a search results
portion 2805 and a content portion 2810, each of which has been
updated based on the selection of Result 1. For instance, the
updated items in the search results portion 2805 include an updated
list of search results 2815, a displayed result indicator 2820, an
expansion control 2830, an advertisement 2840, and a sponsored link
2845. As shown, the sub-elements (e.g., browsing history) related
to Result 5 have been automatically minimized without human
intervention in the updated list of search results 2815 in response
to the selected result being changed to another search result
(e.g., changed to Result 1).
[0122] The displayed result indicator 2820 has been updated and now
identifies Result 1 to indicate that the currently displayed
content corresponds to Result 1. A control 2830 that enables a user
to minimize or expand the tracked browsing (e.g., links selected)
from Result 5 is displayed to enable a user to control whether or
not the tracked browsing is displayed. As such, the sub-elements
(e.g., tracked links) from the content corresponding to Result 5
are automatically minimized (e.g., hidden, reduced in size, reduced
in focus, etc.) from display in response to selection of another
search result. By automatically minimizing at least some of the
tracked browsing, the user may be able to focus on the items
included in the list of search results and, if desired, view
tracked browsing associated with Result 5 using the control 2830.
The second advertisement 2840 and the sponsored link 2845 represent
a new advertisement and a new sponsored link that have been
selected based on the user's selection of the Result 1.
[0123] The content portion 2810 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected search result (e.g.,
content corresponding to Result 1). In response to the selection of
Result 1, the electronic content linked to by the selected result
(e.g., content corresponding to Result 1) may be accessed and
displayed in the content portion 2810.
[0124] FIG. 29 illustrates an example of a process 2900 for
automatically minimizing sub-elements included in a list of search
results. When content of a link is displayed and the link is
displayed as a sub-element of a first search result in the list,
the search system 500 receives user input that results in selection
of a second search result included in the list (2910). For
instance, when content of a link is displayed and the link is
displayed as a sub-element of a first search result in the list,
the search system 500 may receive a user input command (e.g., a
keyboard/keypad button press, a mouse click, a touch screen input,
etc.) that selects a second, different search result included in
the list of search results. The search system 500 may receive a
user input command that selects a link to a second, different
search result included in the electronic content of the link or may
receive other user input that selects a second, different search
result (e.g., selection of a back interface control in a
browser).
[0125] The search system 500 minimizes the link in the formatted
list of electronic search results (2920). For instance, the search
system 500 reduces a focus on or size of the link in the formatted
list of electronic search results. The search system 500 may reduce
a focus of the link by changing a display color of the link (e.g.,
displaying in a lighter color that appears grayed out), removing a
highlight or graphical indication that brings attention to the
link, reducing a clarity of the displayed link, etc. The search
system 500 may reduce a size of the link in the formatted list of
electronic search results by displaying the link with a smaller
font size, removing the link from display completely (e.g., hiding
the link), etc. FIGS. 26 to 28 illustrate examples of sub-elements
that have been minimized in a list of search results.
[0126] The search system 500 provides a control that enables a user
to maximize the link in the list of electronic search results
(2930). For example, the search system 500 displays a control
(e.g., the control 2830) adjacent to the search result in the
formatted list (e.g., Result 5) that is associated with the
sub-elements that have been minimized. The control may include any
type of control (e.g., an interface button, a list expander, etc.)
and may be activated by any type of user input (e.g., a
keyboard/keypad button press, a mouse click, a touch screen input,
etc.). The control also may be displayed in any portion of the user
interface. In some implementations, providing the control may
include modifying the functionality of the search result (e.g.,
Result 5) that is associated with the sub-elements that have been
minimized such that input related to the search result (e.g., a
single mouse click, a right button mouse click, a hover over, etc.)
enables a user to maximize the sub-elements.
[0127] The search system 500 causes display, concurrently with the
updated list of electronic search results, of second electronic
content linked to by the second search result (2940). For instance,
the search system 500 causes a browser to access, over a network,
second electronic content linked to by a URL of the second search
result and display the second electronic content in a content
portion of the browser (e.g., as shown in content portion 2810 of
FIG. 28). The search system 500 may change display, in a content
portion of a browser interface on the display device, of the
content of the link to the second electronic content linked to by
the second search result and may display, in a search results
portion of the browser interface on the display device, of the
reformatted list of electronic search results.
[0128] The search system 500 changes display of the displayed
result indication to indicate that the displayed second electronic
content is associated with the second search result (2950). For
example, the search system 500 may update the displayed result
indication to identify a displayed representation of the second
search result in the formatted list of search results (e.g., rather
than a sub-element of the first search result) and, thereby,
indicate that the second electronic content is associated with the
second search result (e.g., as shown by the updated displayed
result indicator 2820 shown in FIG. 28). The search system 500 may
change display of the displayed result indication by removing the
prior displayed result indication and displaying a new displayed
result indication for the second search result.
[0129] Referring again to FIG. 28, the interface 2800 includes
links to electronic content included in the content displayed in
the content portion 2810 of the interface 2800. As shown in FIG.
28, a user input icon 2850 may be displayed and manipulated by a
user (e.g., using a mouse) to select a link (e.g., Link 3) included
in the content displayed in the content portion 2810 of the
interface 2800. For example, the user input icon 2850 may be
positioned over the link (e.g., Link 3) when the user provides user
input of a selection command.
[0130] FIG. 30 illustrates an interface 3000 that may be displayed
based on user selection of a link (e.g., Link 3) in the interface
2800. For instance, the interface 3000 may be displayed in response
to selection of the link "LINK3" displayed in the Search Result 1
Content shown in the interface 2800. The interface 3000 includes a
search results portion 3005 and a content portion 3010, each of
which has been updated based on the selection of the link displayed
in the content associated with Result 1. For instance, the updated
items in the search results portion 3005 include an updated list of
search results 3015, a displayed result indicator 3020, an
advertisement 3040, and a sponsored link 3045. As shown, the
updated list of search results 3015 includes a sub-element (e.g.,
LINK 3). The sub-element represents a link (of any type of media)
that was selected by a user as the user was reviewing search
results and is selectable by the user to access content
corresponding to the link (e.g., LINK 3). The sub-element (e.g.,
LINK 3) is displayed as a sub-element of Result 5 because the link
corresponding to the sub-element (e.g., LINK 3) was selected when
the user was reviewing Result 1. In this regard, the history of a
user's browsing when reviewing search results is tracked and
displayed in the search results portion 3005 of the interface
3000.
[0131] The displayed result indicator 3020 has been updated and now
identifies LINK3 to indicate that the currently displayed content
corresponds to LINK3. A control that enables a user to minimize or
expand the tracked browsing (e.g., links selected) from Result 1 is
displayed to enable a user to control whether or not the tracked
browsing is displayed. The second advertisement 3040 and the
sponsored link 3045 represent a new advertisement and a new
sponsored link that have been selected based on the user's
selection of the link "LINK3" included in the content associated
with Result 1.
[0132] The content portion 3010 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to LINK3). In response to the selection of LINK3, the
electronic content linked to by the selected link (e.g., content
corresponding to LINK3) may be accessed and displayed in the
content portion 3010.
[0133] The content corresponding to "LINK 3" includes links to
other content and each of the links may or may not be related to
search results or a user's review of the search results. When a
link is related to a search result or the user's review of a search
result, a pop-up interface (or other graphical indication) may be
displayed to indicate to the user that the link is related to a
search result or the user's review of a search result. In some
implementations, the pop-up interface (or other graphical
indication) may provide information related to the user's review of
content corresponding the link. For example, the pop-up interface
3050 is displayed proximate to (e.g., directly above) a link to
content corresponding to search result 6. Because the link links to
the content corresponding to search result 6 and the user has yet
to review the content corresponding to search result 6 (e.g., has
not selected Result 6) in this particular search session, the
pop-up interface 3050 indicates that the link is to search result 6
and also indicates that search result 6 has not been reviewed.
Providing a graphical indication that the link is related to a
search result with information related to the user's review of
content corresponding to the link may assist a user in reviewing
the content and making a decision on whether the user wants to
select the link.
[0134] In another example, the pop-up interface 3060 is displayed
proximate to (e.g., directly above) a link to content corresponding
to search result 2. Because the link links to the content
corresponding to search result 2 and the user has removed search
result 2 from the list of search results in this particular search
session, the pop-up interface 3060 indicates that the link is to
search result 2 and also indicates that search result 2 has been
removed. In a further example, the pop-up interface 3070 is
displayed proximate to (e.g., directly above) a link to content
corresponding to LINK2. Although LINK2 is not a search result,
LINK2 was included in content corresponding to Result 5 and was
selected by the user when reviewing Result 5. Accordingly, LINK2 is
related to the user's review of the search results and information
related to the user's review of LINK2 may be provided. Because the
link links to the content corresponding to LINK2 and the user
selected LINK2 when reviewing Result 5 in this particular search
session, the pop-up interface 3070 indicates that the link is to
LINK2 and also indicates that LINK2 was selected when the user was
reviewing search result 5. In yet another example, the pop-up
interface 3080 is displayed proximate to (e.g., directly above) a
link to content corresponding to search result 4. Because the link
links to the content corresponding to search result 4 and the user
has reviewed search result 4 in this particular search session, the
pop-up interface 3080 indicates that the link is to search result 4
and also indicates that search result 4 has been reviewed.
[0135] The pop-up interfaces 3050 to 3080 may be displayed
immediately when the content is accessed and displayed in the
content portion 3010. The pop-up interfaces 3050 to 3080 may be
displayed for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., three seconds)
and then fade from view to enable the user to more easily view the
content displayed in the content portion 3010. In some
implementations, the pop-up interfaces 3050 to 3080 may not be
displayed immediately, but instead may be displayed when the user
provides input that suggests the user may be interested in
selecting the corresponding link (e.g., moving a user input icon in
an area proximate to the link, selecting the link, hovering over
the link, providing a command to display information related to
links, etc.). In some examples, the links corresponding to the
pop-up interfaces 3050 to 3080 may be displayed distinctly from
other links to content that is not related to search results or a
user's review of the search results. For instance, in these
examples, the links may be highlighted, displayed in a different
color, displayed with a different font size, and/or displayed with
a graphical indicator associated with the link to indicate that
information related to the link is available. The user then may
provide user input to display the information related to the link
if the user desires.
[0136] FIG. 31 illustrates an example of a process 3100 for
displaying indicators relevant to links included on electronic
content. The search system 500 identifies a link included in first
electronic content linked to by a first search result (3110). For
instance, the search system 500 may scan an electronic document and
electronically identify links (e.g., hyperlinks) included in the
electronic document. The search system 500 may identify one or more
links within an electronic document in response to the electronic
document being accessed or may identify one or more links within an
electronic document in response to events that occur during a
user's review of the electronic document (e.g., when the user
positions an input icon over the link).
[0137] The search system 500 accesses browsing history information
related to the user's review of electronic search results included
in the formatted list of electronic search results (3120). For
example, the search system 500 may access the browsing history
information from local electronic storage of a client device or may
receive, over a network, the browsing history information from a
remote host device. The accessed browsing history information may
include tracked information related to the user's review search
results. For instance, the accessed browsing history information
may include information indicating whether or not the user has
reviewed the search result, how long the user reviewed the search
result, whether the user removed the search result, whether the
user added a comment to the search result, whether the user clipped
content for the search result, links selected when the user
reviewed the search result, information related to the user's
review of selected links, and/or any other information related to a
user's review of the search results included in the list.
[0138] The search system 500 compares the link to electronic search
results included in the formatted list of electronic search results
and the browsing history information (3130). The search system 500
may compare a network address (e.g., a URL) associated with the
identified link to network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with
the electronic search results included in the formatted list and
the links included in the accessed browsing history information
that were selected when the user was reviewing the search results.
In some implementations, the search system 500 may access content
linked to by the link (e.g., without displaying the content),
access content linked to by the electronic search results (e.g.,
without displaying the content) and the links that were selected
when the user was reviewing the search results, and compare the
accessed content.
[0139] Based on comparison results, the search system 500
determines whether the link is related to a second electronic
search result included in the formatted list of search results
(3140). For instance, when the search system 500 compares the
network address (e.g., the URL) associated with the identified link
to network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with the electronic
search results included in the formatted list and the links
selected when reviewing search results, the search system 500
determines whether the network address (e.g., the URL) associated
with the identified link matches any of the network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the electronic search results included
in the formatted list or the links selected when reviewing search
results. When the search system 500 compares the content linked to
by the identified link to the content linked to by the search
results included in the formatted list and the links selected when
reviewing search results, the search system 500 determines whether
the content linked to by the identified link matches content linked
to by any of the search results included in the list or the links
selected when reviewing results.
[0140] In response to a determination that the link is related to a
second search result, the search system 500 causes display,
concurrently with the formatted list and the first electronic
content, of a pop-up interface that identifies the second search
result and that indicates browsing history information that
corresponds to the second search result (3150). The search system
500 may display the pop-up interface over the formatted list of
search results and electronic content, while the formatted list of
search results and electronic content are maintained in the display
in the background. The search system 500 may display the pop-up
interface proximate to the link, proximate to the search result to
which the link corresponds, or in any other portion of the
interface. The browsing history information that corresponds to the
second search result may indicate whether or not the user has
reviewed the search result, how long the user reviewed the search
result, whether the user removed the search result, whether the
user added a comment to the search result, whether the user clipped
content for the search result, links selected when the user
reviewed the search result, information related to the user's
review of selected links, and whether the identified link in the
content corresponds to a link selected when reviewing the second
search result. FIG. 30 shows examples of pop-up interfaces (e.g.,
the pop-up interfaces 3050 to 3080) that are displayed proximate to
links.
[0141] Referring again to FIG. 30, the interface 3000 includes an
expand results interface control 3090. The expand results interface
control 3090 may be an additional control added to a chrome portion
of a browser as a user reviews search results. Adding the expand
results interface control 3090 to the chrome portion of the browser
may enhance the functionality of the browser and may provide more
area in the search results portion 3005 for search results
information and other controls. The expand results interface
control 3090 enables a user to expand a display of the search
results in the formatted list 3015. As shown in FIG. 30, a user
input icon 3095 may be displayed and manipulated by a user (e.g.,
using a mouse) to select the expand results interface control 3090.
For example, the user input icon 3095 may be positioned over the
expand results interface control 3090 when the user provides user
input of a selection command.
[0142] FIG. 32 illustrates an interface 3200 that may be displayed
based on user selection of an expand results interface control 3090
in the interface 3000. The interface 3200 includes an expanded list
of search results 3205. The expanded list of search results 3205 is
displayed in a larger display area than a display area of the
search results portion 3005 of the interface 3000. The expanded
list of search results 3205 also may include more detailed
information (e.g., more detailed summary information) about the
search results included in the list of search results. The
interface 3200 may be similar to the interface 200 displayed to a
user initially in response to a user submitting a query, but with
tracked browsing history information related to a user's review of
the search results prior to selection of the expand results
interface control 3090.
[0143] FIG. 33 illustrates an example of a process 3300 for
providing an expanded list of search results. The search system 500
receives an expand results command indicating a desire to expand
the formatted list of electronic search results (3310). For
instance, as discussed above with respect to FIG. 32, the search
system 500 may receive user input selecting an expand results
interface control or some other type of user input (e.g., an oral
comment instruction, a gesture input, etc.) that explicitly
indicates a desire to expand a display of the formatted list of
search results.
[0144] In response to the expand results command, the search system
500 accesses summary information related to the search results
included in the formatted list, the accessed summary information
being more detailed than the information displayed in the formatted
list (3320). The summary information may be more detailed than
information displayed in the formatted list. The search system 500
may access the summary information from local electronic storage or
may receive, over a network, the summary information from a remote
device (e.g., a search engine).
[0145] The search system 500 reformats the list of electronic
search results to include the accessed summary information and
increase a size of the list of search results (3330). The search
system 500 may increase a horizontal dimension and/or vertical
dimension of an area being used to display the search results. The
search system 500 also may increase a font size of the text used to
represent the search results. The search system 500 further may
space the search results further apart and include the more
detailed summary information in the list of search results (e.g.,
the more detailed title, a summary, related links, relevancy
ratings, a network address of the search results, etc.). In some
implementations, the search system 500 maintains tracked browsing
history (e.g., sub-elements) in the reformatted list of search
results. In these implementations, the search system 500 may
include more detailed summary information for tracked links in the
list of search results (e.g., a more detailed title for the link, a
summary of the link, related links to the link, relevancy ratings
for the link, a network address of the link, etc.). In addition,
the search system 500 may include controls that enable a user to
expand/minimize the browsing history for the search results and may
include comment/clip indicators for results associated with
comments/clipped content.
[0146] The search system 500 removes display of any electronic
content linked to by any of the electronic search results included
in the formatted list of electronic search results (3340) and
causes display of the reformatted list of electronic search results
without displaying any electronic content linked to by any of the
search results (3350). For instance, the search system 500 removes
any displayed content linked to by any of the search results and
displays the reformatted (e.g., expanded) list of search results in
a single interface. The search system 500 may return a browser
display to a search engine that initially provided the search
results.
[0147] Referring again to FIG. 32, a user input icon 3210 may be
displayed and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select
a search result included in the expanded list (e.g., Search Result
7). For example, the user input icon 3210 may be positioned over
the search result included in the expanded list (e.g., Search
Result 7) when the user provides user input of a selection
command.
[0148] FIG. 34 illustrates an interface 3400 that may be displayed
based on user selection of a search result (e.g., Search Result 7)
in the interface 3200. The interface 3400 includes a search results
portion 3405 and a content portion 3410. The search results portion
3405 includes an updated list of search results 3415, a displayed
result indicator 3420, an expansion control 3430, an advertisement
3440, and a sponsored link 3445. As shown, the sub-elements (e.g.,
browsing history) related to Result 1 have been automatically
minimized without human intervention in the updated list of search
results 3415 and the updated list of search results 3415 has been
reformatted from the expanded list of search results to fit in the
search results portion 3405. The displayed result indicator 3420
identifies Result 7 to indicate that the currently displayed
content corresponds to Result 7. A control 3430 that enables a user
to minimize or expand the tracked browsing (e.g., links selected)
from Result 1 is displayed to enable a user to control whether or
not the tracked browsing is displayed. The second advertisement
3440 and the sponsored link 3445 represent a new advertisement and
a new sponsored link that have been selected based on the user's
selection of Result 7.
[0149] The content portion 3410 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected search result (e.g.,
content corresponding to Result 7). In response to the selection of
Result 7, the electronic content linked to by the selected result
(e.g., content corresponding to Result 7) may be accessed and
displayed in the content portion 3410.
[0150] The search results portion 3405 also includes an input field
3450 and a search control 3460. The input field 3450 enables a user
to enter a search query that includes one or more terms and
parameters (e.g., logical operators) defining the desired analysis
of the search query. When a user selects the search control 3460
using, for example, an input device 3470, the search system 500
performs a search using the search query entered in the input field
3450 and displays results of the search to the user.
[0151] FIG. 35 illustrates an interface 3500 that may be displayed
based on user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 2) in the
interface 3400. The interface 3500 includes a search results
portion 3505 and a content portion 3510, each of which has been
updated based on user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 2)
in the interface 3400. For instance, the updated items in the
search results portion 3505 include an updated list of search
results 3515, a second search identifier 3520, a displayed result
indicator 3525, an expansion control 3530, a first advertisement
3535, a second advertisement 3540, and a sponsored link 3545. As
shown, the updated list of search results 3515 includes search
results identified as being responsive to the search query (e.g.,
Query 2) in the interface 3400. The updated list of search results
3515 may be similar to lists of search results described above, but
for a second query that is different than the first query entered
in the search session.
[0152] The search identifier 3520 identifies a number of the search
within a particular search session (e.g., Search 2) to which the
list of search results 3515 corresponds and also identifies the
query (e.g., Query 2) to which the list of search results 3515 is
responsive. The search identifier 3520 is associated with a control
element that enables a user to expand (e.g., enable display) or
minimize (e.g., hide from display) the list of search results
3515.
[0153] The displayed result indicator 3525 has been updated and now
identifies Result 8 to indicate that the currently displayed
content corresponds to Result 8. The displayed result indicator
3525 identifies Result 8 because Result 8 is the first result
included in the list of search results responsive to Query 2 (e.g.,
the result in the second list that is most relevant to Query 2).
The expansion control 3530 is displayed in association with search
identifier 320 that corresponds to the first query. The expansion
control 3530 is enables a user to expand (e.g., enable display) or
minimize (e.g., hide from display) the list of search results
responsive to the first query. As shown, in response to submission
of a second query in the interface 3400, a first list of search
results responsive to the first query is minimized (e.g., hidden
from display) automatically without human intervention and a second
list of search results responsive to the second query is displayed
automatically without human intervention.
[0154] The first advertisement 3535 is a new advertisement that has
been selected based on the performance of the second search using
the second query. The second advertisement 3540 and the sponsored
link 3545 represent a new advertisement and a new sponsored link
that have been selected based on the selection of the search result
"Result 8" included in the second list of search results responsive
to the second query.
[0155] The content portion 3510 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected search result (e.g.,
content corresponding to Result 8). In response to the selection of
Result 8 (e.g., automatic selection because Result 8 was the first
result in the second list of search results), the electronic
content linked to the selected result (e.g., content corresponding
to Result 8) may be accessed and displayed in the content portion
3510.
[0156] The interface 3500 further includes several graphical
indications that provide a user with information related a user's
previous review of search results in the particular search session.
For example, the interface 3500 has a new results graphical
indication 3550 that provides an indication of which results in the
second list are new results (e.g., results that are not included in
the first list of search results responsive to the first query). In
this example, the graphical indication 3550 designates a symbol
that is displayed adjacent to each of the new search results.
[0157] For search results in the second list of search results that
are also included in the first list of search results, the
interface 3500 includes one or more graphical indications that
indicate that the search result was included in the first search
and provides information related to the user's review of the search
result when reviewing search results returned from the first
search. The graphical indication 3560 indicates that the
corresponding result (e.g., Result 6) was included in the first
search and was not reviewed. The graphical indication 3570
indicates that the corresponding result (e.g., Result 2) was
included in the first search and was removed. The graphical
indication 3580 indicates that the corresponding result (e.g.,
Result 4) was included in the first search and was reviewed. The
graphical indications 3550 to 3580 may assist a user in review of
the second list of search results and may assist the user in
leveraging information learned when reviewing the search results
returned in the first search. This may be particularly useful when
the user did not find the information the user was searching for in
the first search and the second search represents an additional
search for the desired information (e.g., the second query is a
reformulated version of the first query). In this regard, the
graphical indications 3550 to 3580 may assist a user in identifying
results the user has previously reviewed without having to select
the result a second time.
[0158] FIG. 36 illustrates an example of a process 3600 for
processing a second query. The search system 500 receives, from a
user, a second query (3610). For instance, the search system 500
receives user input entering a search query that includes one or
more terms and parameters (e.g., logical operators) defining the
desired analysis of the search query.
[0159] In response to receipt of the second query, the search
system 500 accesses a second list of electronic search results that
are responsive to the second query (3620). For example, the search
system 500 may perform a search of electronic content based on the
second query and identify a list of electronic search results that
are responsive to the second query. The search system 500 also may
submit the second query to a search engine and receive a list of
electronic search results identified by the search engine.
[0160] The search system 500 minimizes (e.g., reduces a display
size) of the first list of electronic search results, the first
list of electronic search results being associated with the first
query (3630). For instance, the search system 500 reduces a focus
on or size of the first list of electronic search results. The
search system 500 may reduce a focus of the first list of
electronic search results by changing a display color of the first
list of electronic search results (e.g., displaying in a lighter
color that appears grayed out), removing a highlight or graphical
indication that brings attention to the first list of electronic
search results, reducing a clarity of the displayed first list of
electronic search results, etc. The search system 500 may reduce a
size of the first list of electronic search results by displaying
the first list of electronic search results with a smaller font
size, removing the first list of electronic search results from
display completely (e.g., hiding the first list of electronic
search results), etc. FIG. 35 illustrates an example of a first
list of search results that has been minimized.
[0161] The search system 500 provides a control that enables a user
to increase the display size of the first list of electronic search
results (3640). For example, the search system 500 displays a
control (e.g., the control 3530) adjacent to the search identifier
associated with the first list of electronic search results that
has been minimized. The control may include any type of control
(e.g., an interface button, a list expander, etc.) and may be
activated by any type of user input (e.g., a keyboard/keypad button
press, a mouse click, a touch screen input, etc.). The control also
may be displayed in any portion of the user interface. In some
implementations, providing the control may include modifying the
functionality of the search identifier (e.g., the search identifier
320) that is associated with the first list of electronic search
results that has been minimized such that input related to the
search identifier (e.g., a single mouse click, a right button mouse
click, a hover over, etc.) enables a user to maximize the first
list of electronic search results.
[0162] The search system 500 adds, to the list of search results,
the second list of electronic search results that are responsive to
the second query received from the user (3650). For instance, the
search system 500 may display the second list of electronic search
results as a second list of search results (e.g., a separate list).
The search system 500 also may add the second list of search
results to the end of the first list of search results to include a
single, combined list of search results.
[0163] The search system 500 associates the second list of
electronic search results with the second query (3660). For
instance, the search system 500 may visually distinguish the second
list of electronic search results from the first list of electronic
search results (e.g., display the second list of search results in
another color, or use any other technique described throughout the
disclosure). The search system 500 may display a search identifier
related to the second list of search results to associate the
second list of electronic search results with the second query. The
search identifier may include the second query.
[0164] FIG. 37 illustrates an example of a process 3700 for
displaying an indication for an electronic search result included a
list of search results that is based on whether the electronic
search result was included in a prior search and aspects of a
user's review of the electronic search result. The search system
500 receives, from a user, a second query (3710). For instance, the
search system 500 receives user input entering a search query that
includes one or more terms and parameters (e.g., logical operators)
defining the desired analysis of the search query.
[0165] In response to receipt of the second query, the search
system 500 accesses a second list of electronic search results that
are responsive to the second query (3720). For example, the search
system 500 may perform a search of electronic content based on the
second query and identify a list of electronic search results that
are responsive to the second query. The search system 500 also may
submit the second query to a search engine and receive a list of
electronic search results identified by the search engine.
[0166] The search system 500 compares electronic search results
included in the second list of electronic search results with
electronic search results included in the first list of electronic
search results (3730). The search system 500 may compare network
addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with search results included in
the second list to network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with
the electronic search results included in the first list. In some
implementations, the search system 500 may access content linked to
by the search results included in the second list (e.g., without
displaying the content), access content linked to by the search
results in the first list (e.g., without displaying the content),
and compare the accessed content.
[0167] Based on comparison results, the search system 500
identifies one or more search results that are included in the
second list of search results and that also are included in the
first list of search results (3740). For instance, when the search
system 500 compares the network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated
with the search results in the second list to network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the search results in the first list,
the search system 500 determines whether the network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the search results in the second list
match any of the network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with the
search results in the first list. When the search system 500
compares the content linked to by the search results in the second
list to the content linked to by the search results in the first
list, the search system 500 determines whether the content linked
to by the search results in the second list matches content linked
to by any of the search results in the first list.
[0168] The search system 500 accesses browsing history information
related to the user's review of the identified one or more search
results responsive to the first query (3750). For example, the
search system 500 may access the browsing history information from
local electronic storage of a client device or may receive, over a
network, the browsing history information from a remote host
device. The accessed browsing history information may include
tracked information related to the user's review search results.
For instance, the accessed browsing history information may include
information indicating whether or not the user has reviewed the
search result, how long the user reviewed the search result,
whether the user removed the search result, whether the user added
a comment to the search result, whether the user clipped content
for the search result, links selected when the user reviewed the
search result, information related to the user's review of selected
links, and/or any other information related to a user's review of
the search results included in the list.
[0169] Based on the accessed browsing history information, the
search system 500 generates one or more graphical indicators that
indicate that the identified search results were included in the
first list and that indicate aspects of the user's review of the
identified search results (3760) and causes display of the second
list of electronic search results and the one or more graphical
indicators (3770). The search system 500 may display the graphical
indicators over the second list of search results and electronic
content, while the second list of search results and electronic
content are maintained in the display in the background. The search
system 500 may display the graphical indicators proximate to the
corresponding search results, or in any other portion of the
interface. The browsing history information that corresponds to the
search results may indicate whether or not the user has reviewed
the search result, how long the user reviewed the search result,
whether the user removed the search result, whether the user added
a comment to the search result, whether the user clipped content
for the search result, links selected when the user reviewed the
search result, information related to the user's review of selected
links, and whether the identified link in the content corresponds
to a link selected when reviewing the second search result. FIG. 35
shows examples of graphical indicators (e.g., the graphical
indications 3550 to 3580) that are displayed.
[0170] FIG. 38 illustrates an interface 3800 that may be displayed
based on user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 2) in the
interface 3400. The interface 3800 may be displayed as an
alternative to the interface 3500 discussed above with respect to
FIG. 35. In the interface 3800, past browsing history of search
results is used to sort and order the second list of search results
responsive to the second search query (e.g., Query 2).
[0171] The interface 3800 includes a search results portion 3805
and a content portion 3810, each of which has been updated based on
user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 2) in the interface
3400. For instance, the items in the search results portion 3805
that are updated and different from the interface 3500 include an
updated list of search results 3815, a displayed result indicator
3825, a second advertisement 3840, and a sponsored link 3845. As
shown, the updated list of search results 3815 includes search
results identified as being responsive to the search query (e.g.,
Query 2) in the interface 3400. The updated list of search results
3815 may be similar to lists of search results described above, but
for a second query that is different than the first query entered
in the search session. The updated list of search results 3815 may
be sorted and ordered based on past browsing history of search
results that the system automatically tracks without human
intervention. For instance, as shown, Result 2, which was included
in the updated list of search results 3515, is not included in the
updated list of search results 3815 because Result 2 was removed
from the first list of search results responsive to the first query
(e.g., Query 1) when the user was reviewing the first list of
search results and the system may filter out results that were
previously removed. In addition, Result 6, which was included in
the updated list of search results 3515, but not reviewed by the
user, is ordered first in the updated list of search results 3815
because Result 6 was included in both the first search and the
second search (e.g., suggesting that Result 6 is relevant to the
user's desired information) and has not been reviewed by the user.
The new results (e.g., Result 8, Result 9, and Result 10) are
ordered next in the updated list of search results 3815 based on
their respective relevancy ratings to the second query and prior
results that have been reviewed (e.g., Result 4) are ordered last
in the updated list of search results 3815 based on their
respective relevancy ratings to the second query. Using the past
browsing history tracked for the user may provide more accurate
sorting and ordering of search results that differs from merely
using the relevancy ratings to the second query.
[0172] The displayed result indicator 3825 has been updated and now
identifies Result 6 to indicate that the currently displayed
content corresponds to Result 6. The displayed result indicator
3825 identifies Result 6 because Result 6 is the first result
included in the list of search results responsive to Query 2. The
second advertisement 3840 and the sponsored link 3845 represent a
new advertisement and a new sponsored link that have been selected
based on the selection of the search result "Result 6" included in
the second list of search results.
[0173] The content portion 3810 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected search result (e.g.,
content corresponding to Result 6). In response to the selection of
Result 6 (e.g., automatic selection because Result 6 was the first
result in the second list of search results), the electronic
content linked to the selected result (e.g., content corresponding
to Result 6) may be accessed and displayed in the content portion
3810.
[0174] FIG. 39 illustrates an example of a process 3900 for
organizing search results responsive to a query based on prior
searches. The search system 500 receives, from a user, a second
query (3910). For instance, the search system 500 receives user
input entering a search query that includes one or more terms and
parameters (e.g., logical operators) defining the desired analysis
of the search query.
[0175] In response to receipt of the second query, the search
system 500 accesses a second list of electronic search results that
are responsive to the second query (3920). For example, the search
system 500 may perform a search of electronic content based on the
second query and identify a list of electronic search results that
are responsive to the second query. The search system 500 also may
submit the second query to a search engine and receive a list of
electronic search results identified by the search engine.
[0176] The search system 500 accesses relevancy ratings that
reflect the relevancy of electronic search results included the
second list of search results to the second query (3930). For
example, the search system 500 may access the relevancy ratings
from local electronic storage of a client device, may receive, over
a network, the relevancy ratings from a remote host device, or may
compute the relevancy ratings. The relevancy ratings may indicate a
degree (e.g., a percentage) of how relevant a particular result is
to the second query.
[0177] The search system 500 compares electronic search results
included in the second list of electronic search results with
electronic search results included in the first list of electronic
search results (3940). The search system 500 may compare network
addresses (e.g., a URLs) associated with search results included in
the second list to network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with
the electronic search results included in the first list. In some
implementations, the search system 500 may access content linked to
by the search results included in the second list (e.g., without
displaying the content), access content linked to by the search
results in the first list (e.g., without displaying the content),
and compare the accessed content.
[0178] Based on comparison results, the search system 500
identifies one or more search results that are included in the
second list of search results and that also are included in the
first list of search results (3950). For instance, when the search
system 500 compares the network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated
with the search results in the second list to network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the search results in the first list,
the search system 500 determines whether the network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the search results in the second list
match any of the network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with the
search results in the first list. When the search system 500
compares the content linked to by the search results in the second
list to the content linked to by the search results in the first
list, the search system 500 determines whether the content linked
to by the search results in the second list matches content linked
to by any of the search results in the first list.
[0179] The search system 500 accesses browsing history information
related to the user's review of the identified one or more search
results responsive to the first query (3960). For example, the
search system 500 may access the browsing history information from
local electronic storage of a client device or may receive, over a
network, the browsing history information from a remote host
device. The accessed browsing history information may include
tracked information related to the user's review search results.
For instance, the accessed browsing history information may include
information indicating whether or not the user has reviewed the
search result, how long the user reviewed the search result,
whether the user removed the search result, whether the user added
a comment to the search result, whether the user clipped content
for the search result, links selected when the user reviewed the
search result, information related to the user's review of selected
links, and/or any other information related to a user's review of
the search results included in the list.
[0180] Based on the relevancy ratings, the identification, and the
accessed browsing history information, the search system 500
filters search results from the second list (3970). For instance,
the search system 500 may filter search results for which the
accessed browsing history information indicates that the search
result has been previously removed by the user and may filter
search results associated with relevancy ratings that are below a
threshold. In some implementations, the search system 500 may
adjust a relevancy rating threshold or may have multiple, different
thresholds based on browsing history information. In these
implementations, the search system 500 may use a first relevancy
threshold for results that have been reviewed and not removed from
a prior search and may use a second relevancy threshold that is
higher than the first relevancy threshold for results that have
been removed from a prior search (e.g., a previously removed search
result needs to be more relevant to the second query than a result
that was not removed to remain in the list). The search system 500
also may set/use different relevancy ratings based on whether the
search result was reviewed (e.g., a higher threshold for results
reviewed and a lower threshold for results that were not reviewed),
how long the user reviewed a result in a prior search (e.g., a
higher threshold for results reviewed a shorter amount of time),
whether the user added a comment to the search result, (e.g., a
lower threshold for results on which the user commented), and
whether the user clipped content for the search result (e.g., a
lower threshold for results from which the user clipped content).
New results may use a different threshold than prior results.
[0181] Based on the relevancy ratings, the identification, and the
accessed browsing history information, the search system 500
organizes search results in the second list (3980). For example,
the search system 500 may group similar types of results together
(e.g., new results, reviewed results, unreviewed results, removed
results, etc.). The search system 500 also may weight relevancy
ratings based on whether the search result was included in a prior
search and the browsing history of search results included in a
prior search. For instance, the search system 500 may use a first
weighting for results from a prior search that have not been
reviewed, a second weighting for new results, a third weighting for
results from a prior search that have been reviewed, and a fourth
weighting for results from a prior search that have been removed.
The first weighting may result in a higher relevancy to the search
than the second weighting, the second weighting may result in a
higher relevancy to the search than the third weighting, and the
third weighting may result in a higher relevancy to the search than
the fourth weighting. The search system 500 may order results based
on the relevancy ratings weighted based on the accessed browsing
history.
[0182] Referring again to FIG. 38, a user input icon 3870 may be
displayed and manipulated by a user (e.g., using a mouse) to
perform a third search. For instance, the user input icon 3870 may
be positioned over the search control 3460 when the user provides
input of a selection command and has entered a third query (e.g.,
Query 3) in the input field 3450.
[0183] FIG. 40 illustrates an interface 4000 that may be displayed
based on user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 3) in the
interface 3800. The interface 4000 includes a search results
portion 4005 and a content portion 4010, each of which has been
updated based on user submission of a third search query (e.g.,
Query 3) in the interface 3800. For instance, the updated items in
the search results portion 4005 include an updated list of search
results 4015, a third search identifier 4020, browsing history 4025
(e.g., sub-elements related to selected links), an expansion
control 4030, and a first advertisement 4035. As shown, the updated
list of search results 4015 includes search results identified as
being responsive to the third search query (e.g., Query 3) in the
interface 3400. The updated list of search results 4015 may be
similar to lists of search results described above, but for a third
query that is different than the first query and the second query
entered in the search session.
[0184] The search identifier 4020 identifies a number of the search
within a particular search session (e.g., Search 3) to which the
list of search results 4015 corresponds and also identifies the
query (e.g., Query 3) to which the list of search results 4015 is
responsive. The search identifier 4020 is associated with a control
element that enables a user to expand (e.g., enable display) or
minimize (e.g., hide from display) the list of search results
4015.
[0185] The displayed result indicator 3825 has not been updated and
identifies Result 6 to indicate that the currently displayed
content corresponds to Result 6. The displayed result indicator
3825 identifies Result 6 because Result 6 is included in the list
of search results responsive to Query 3 (e.g., a result in the
third list) and was selected at the time the third query (e.g.,
Query 3) was submitted by the user. Accordingly, although Result 6
is not the most relevant result to the third query in the third
list of search results, Result 6 is selected because Result 6 was
selected when the third query (e.g., Query 3) was submitted.
[0186] The browsing history 4025 (e.g., sub-elements related to
selected links) provides a graphical representation of tracked
browsing of search results that were included in a prior search.
For instance, if the user selected a link when reviewing content
corresponding to a particular search result, the selected link is
displayed as a sub-element of the search result in the third list
of search results. The browsing history 4025 also may include
comment indicators for search results associated with user comments
and clip indicators for search results associated with clipped
content. By automatically displaying the tracked browsing history
when initially displaying the third list of search results, the
user may be able to more easily and quickly review the third list
of search results.
[0187] The expansion control 4030 is displayed in association with
search identifier 3520 that corresponds to the second query. The
expansion control 4030 enables a user to expand (e.g., enable
display) or minimize (e.g., hide from display) the second list of
search results responsive to the second query. As shown, in
response to submission of a third query in the interface 3800, a
second list of search results responsive to the second query is
minimized (e.g., hidden) automatically without human intervention
and a third list of search results responsive to the third query is
displayed automatically without human intervention.
[0188] The first advertisement 4035 is a new advertisement that has
been selected based on the performance of the third search using
the third query. The second advertisement 3840 and the sponsored
link 3845 remain the same because Result 6 remains selected.
[0189] The content portion 4010 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected search result (e.g.,
content corresponding to Result 6). Because Result 6 was selected
at the time the third query (e.g., Query 3) was submitted by the
user, the content portion 4010 maintains display of content
displayed in the content portion 3810.
[0190] The interface 4000 further includes several graphical
indications that provide a user with information related a user's
previous searches in the particular search session. For example,
the interface 4000 has a new results graphical indication 4050 that
provides an indication of which results in the third list are new
results (e.g., results that are not included in the first list or
second list). In this example, the graphical indication 4050
designates a symbol that is displayed adjacent to each of the new
search results.
[0191] For search results in the third list of search results that
are also included in both the first list of search results and the
second list of search results, the interface 4000 includes one or
more graphical indications (e.g., graphical indications 4060 and
4075) that indicate that the search result was included in the
first search and the second search. For search results in the third
list of search results that are included in the first list of
search results, but not the second list of search results, the
interface 4000 includes one or more graphical indications (e.g.,
graphical indications 4065 and 4070) that indicate that the search
result was included in the first search (e.g., included in the
first search, but not the second search). For search results in the
third list of search results that are not included in the first
list of search results, but are included in the second list of
search results, the interface 4000 includes one or more graphical
indications (e.g., graphical indication 4080) that indicate that
the search result was included in the second search (e.g., included
in the second search, but not the first search).
[0192] FIG. 41 illustrates an example of a process 4100 for
supplementing a list of search results with browsing history
information related to a user's prior review of the search results.
The search system 500 receives, from a user, a second query (4110).
For instance, the search system 500 receives user input entering a
search query that includes one or more terms and parameters (e.g.,
logical operators) defining the desired analysis of the search
query.
[0193] In response to receipt of the second query, the search
system 500 accesses a second list of electronic search results that
are responsive to the second query (4120). For example, the search
system 500 may perform a search of electronic content based on the
second query and identify a list of electronic search results that
are responsive to the second query. The search system 500 also may
submit the second query to a search engine and receive a list of
electronic search results identified by the search engine.
[0194] The search system 500 compares electronic search results
included in the second list of electronic search results with
electronic search results included in a first list of electronic
search results (4130). The search system 500 may compare network
addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with search results included in
the second list to network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with
the electronic search results included in the first list. In some
implementations, the search system 500 may access content linked to
by the search results included in the second list (e.g., without
displaying the content), access content linked to by the search
results in the first list (e.g., without displaying the content),
and compare the accessed content.
[0195] Based on comparison results, the search system 500
identifies one or more search results that are included in the
second list of search results and that also are included in the
first list of search results (4140). For instance, when the search
system 500 compares the network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated
with the search results in the second list to network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the search results in the first list,
the search system 500 determines whether the network addresses
(e.g., URLs) associated with the search results in the second list
match any of the network addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with the
search results in the first list. When the search system 500
compares the content linked to by the search results in the second
list to the content linked to by the search results in the first
list, the search system 500 determines whether the content linked
to by the search results in the second list matches content linked
to by any of the search results in the first list.
[0196] The search system 500 accesses browsing history information
related to the user's review of the identified one or more search
results responsive to the first query (4150). For example, the
search system 500 may access the browsing history information from
local electronic storage of a client device or may receive, over a
network, the browsing history information from a remote host
device. The accessed browsing history information may include
tracked information related to the user's review of search results.
For instance, the accessed browsing history information may include
information indicating whether or not the user has reviewed the
search result, how long the user reviewed the search result,
whether the user removed the search result, whether the user added
a comment to the search result, whether the user clipped content
for the search result, links selected when the user reviewed the
search result, information related to the user's review of selected
links, and/or any other information related to a user's review of
the search results included in the list.
[0197] The search system 500 updates the second list of electronic
search results with additional information based on the accessed
browsing history information (4160). For example, the search system
500 adds additional information to the second list of electronic
search results that reflects tracked browsing history of search
results included in the second list of electronic search results.
The search system 500 may limit the tracked browsing history to
searches included in the same search session as the current search
or may use the tracked browsing history for any prior searches
(e.g., whether or not they were performed by the user performing
the current search). The additional information added by the search
system 500 may include previously selected links as sub-elements of
the search result associated with content from which the links were
selected. Furthermore, the additional information added by the
search system 500 may include comments (e.g., comment indicators),
clipped content (e.g., clip indicators), and/or any other type of
information related to a user's past browsing history of search
results included in the second list of electronic search
results.
[0198] The search system 500 causes display of the updated list of
electronic search results with the additional information (4170).
The search system 500 may display the updated list of electronic
search results with the additional information upon initial
presentation of the search results in response to the second query.
The search system 500 may display the additional information in a
manner similar to how the search system 500 displays tracked
browsing (e.g., selected links) discussed above. The additional
information may include selected links, comments, clipped content,
and/or any other type of graphic that represents accessed browsing
history. FIG. 40 shows an example of an updated list of electronic
search results that is displayed, initially and automatically
without human intervention, with additional information.
[0199] FIG. 42 illustrates an interface 4200 that may be displayed
based on user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 3) in the
interface 3800. The interface 4200 may be displayed as an
alternative to the interface 4000 discussed above with respect to
FIG. 40. In the interface 4200, past browsing history of search
results is used to sort and order the third list of search results
responsive to the third search query (e.g., Query 3).
[0200] The interface 4200 includes a search results portion 4205
and a content portion 4210, each of which has been updated based on
user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 3) in the interface
3800. For instance, the items in the search results portion 4205
that are updated and different from the interface 4000 include an
updated list of search results 4215. As shown, the updated list of
search results 4215 includes search results identified as being
responsive to the search query (e.g., Query 3) in the interface
3800. The updated list of search results 4215 may be similar to
lists of search results described above, but for a third query that
is different than the first query and the second query entered in
the search session. The updated list of search results 4215 may be
sorted and ordered based on past browsing history of search results
that the system automatically tracks without human intervention.
For instance, as shown, Result 6 is presented first in the third
list of search results because Result 6 was included in all (or the
most recent two) prior searches (e.g., search 1 and search 2) and
selected for review. Result 4 is presented second in the third list
of search results because Result 4 was included in all (or the most
recent two) prior searches (e.g., search 1 and search 2), but not
selected for review. Because Result 6 was previously selected for
review and Result 4 was not previously selected for review, Result
6 is ordered higher than Result 4 in the third list of search
results (e.g., in a position indicating higher relevancy to the
query). In other implementations, different criteria may be used in
ordering search results based on tracked review of search results
returned in response to prior queries (e.g., Result 4 may be
ordered higher than Result 6 in some implementations).
[0201] Results 11-13 are presented next in the third list of search
results because Results 11-13 are new and have not been included in
search results returned for a previous query in the particular
search session (or, perhaps, at all). Result 9 follows Results
11-13 in the third list of search results because Result 9 was
found in the most recent prior search (e.g., search 2). Results 5
and 3 follow Result 9 in the third list of search results because
Results 5 and 3 were found in results returned in one search prior
to most recent search (e.g., search 1). Result 5 may be listed
before Result 3 in the third list of search results because Result
5 is associated with more tracked browsing history than Result
3.
[0202] The content portion 4210 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected search result (e.g.,
content corresponding to Result 6). In response to the selection of
Result 6 (e.g., automatic selection because Result 6 was the first
result in the third list of search results), the electronic content
linked to by the selected result (e.g., content corresponding to
Result 6) may be accessed and displayed in the content portion
4210.
[0203] FIG. 43 illustrates an example of a process 4300 for
automatically reordering search results included in a list of
search results based on past browsing history. The search system
500 identifies past queries entered by a user that are related to
the current query entered by the user (4310). For example, the
search system 500 may identify queries the user has entered within
the search session corresponding to the current query. In this
example, the search system 500 may define the search session as
queries entered since the user logged on to (e.g., initiated use
of) the search system 500, queries entered since the user last
cleared the search session history, a past threshold number of
queries (e.g., past 10 queries), queries entered within a past
threshold period of time (e.g., past 60 minutes), etc.
[0204] The search system 500 also may identify past queries that
are related to the current query. For instance, the search system
500 may compare the current query to past queries (e.g., all past
queries submitted by the user or a relatively large number of past
queries) and identify queries that have similar terms (e.g., the
same terms, terms related to the same subject, synonyms, etc.). The
search system 500 may analyze the most recently entered queries in
order, continue to identify past queries that are related to the
current query, and stop analyzing queries further in the past when
a query is found that is not sufficiently related to the current
query. In this regard, the search system 500 may identify queries
within a query reformulation session that appears to be directed to
finding information on a single subject.
[0205] The search system 500 accesses electronic search results
identified for each of the identified past searches performed by
the user (4320). The search system 500 may access stored search
results related to each of the past queries. The search results may
be stored in local/remote electronic storage at a time when the
query corresponding to the search was executed. The search system
500 also may identify search results in a new search process for
each of the identified past queries in response to entry of the
current query.
[0206] The search system 500 accesses browsing history information
related to the user's review of electronic search results included
in the identified past searches performed by the user (4330). For
example, the search system 500 accesses locally or remotely stored
information that reflects the user's browsing of past search
results. In this example, the browsing history may identify which
search results the user reviewed, which search results the user did
not review, how long the user reviewed the search results, whether
the user commented or clipped content associated with the search
result, etc. The browsing history also may include links selected
from the search result and any other information related to the
user's browsing of search results.
[0207] Based on the accessed electronic search results and the
accessed browsing history information, the search system 500
reorders electronic search results included in the list of
electronic search results (4340). For instance, the search system
500 may reorder search results based on the number of past queries
with which the search result is associated, how long the user
reviewed the search results, whether or not the user reviewed the
search results, whether or not the user added comments or clipped
content associated with the search results, etc. Reordering the
search results may include arranging the search results in an order
that is different than the ranking of the search results with
respect to relevance to the current query.
[0208] For instance, a first search result that is most relevant to
the current query may have appeared in a prior related search and
may have been reviewed by the user for a relatively brief period of
time. Because the user has reviewed the first search result and
only for a relatively brief period of time, the search system 500
may determine that the first search result is not relevant or of
interest to the user, even though the first search result is ranked
as the most relevant to the current query by a ranking process and
would have been displayed first in the list if no browsing history
existed. In this case, the search system 500 may remove the first
search result from the list or order other search results that are
identified by the ranking process as being less relevant to the
current query than the first search result higher in the list
(e.g., a position in the list for more relevant results). In some
examples, the search system 500 may identify groups of search
results with similar browsing history (e.g., new results, repeated
results that have been reviewed, repeated results that have not
been reviewed, etc.), the groups may be ranked (e.g., new results
followed by repeated results that have not been reviewed followed
by repeated results that have been reviewed, etc.), and the
relevancy scores with respect to the current query assigned by a
ranking process may be used to order the results within the groups.
Other implementations may use more browsing history and other past
search result information to inform search result sorting and
ordering, and may weight the browsing history, past search result
information, and relevancy rankings differently than described
above.
[0209] FIG. 44 illustrates an interface 4400 that may be displayed
based on user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 3) in the
interface 3800. The interface 4400 may be displayed as an
alternative to the interface 4000 and the interface 4200 discussed
above with respect to FIG. 40 and FIG. 42, respectively. In the
interface 4400, collectively relevancy of search results to the
current query and past queries is used to sort and order the third
list of search results responsive to the third search query (e.g.,
Query 3).
[0210] The interface 4400 includes a search results portion 4405
and a content portion 4410, each of which has been updated based on
user submission of a search query (e.g., Query 3) in the interface
3800. For instance, the items in the search results portion 4405
that are updated and different from the interface 4000 and the
interface 4200 include an updated list of search results 4415, a
displayed result indicator 4425, a new results indicator 4430, a
second advertisement 4440, and a sponsored link 4445. As shown, the
updated list of search results 4415 includes search results
identified as being responsive to the search query (e.g., Query 3)
in the interface 3800. The updated list of search results 4415 may
be similar to lists of search results described above, but for a
third query that is different than the first query and the second
query entered in the search session. The updated list of search
results 4415 may be sorted and ordered based on collective
relevancy of search results that the system automatically tracks
without human intervention. For instance, new results (e.g.,
Results 11-13) may be grouped separately and distinguished from
results included in searches related to past queries. As shown, the
new results (e.g., Results 11-13) are listed first in the third
list of search results and distinguished from the past search
results by the new results indicator 4430. Specifically, the new
results indicator 4430 identifies the new results in the third list
of search results and visually distinguishes the new results from
past results in the third list of search results using a graphical
interface element.
[0211] For results that were returned as being responsive to a past
query (e.g., a query performed previously in the current search
session or identified as being related to the current query), the
past results are ordered based on their collective relevancy to the
current query as well as past queries. The collective relevancy of
a threshold number of searches may be used (e.g., two past
searches), the collective relevancy of all past searches may be
used, and/or the collective relevancy of a variable number of
searches may be used. The variable number may be determined based
on an automatic process performed by a computer that compares
previously-entered queries to the current query to determine
whether similarities exist such that using collective relevance
will be beneficial to the result ranking/ordering process.
[0212] For example, as shown, the results in the list 4415 other
than the new results (i.e., Results 11-13) are ordered based on the
collective relevancy of the results to the first, second, and third
queries/searches described throughout the disclosure. In this
example and for illustrative purposes, relevancy scores have been
assigned to the search results by assigning an integer number
starting at nine for the first search result and decrementing the
number for each position lower in the list. Specifically, for the
first query/search and the order of results shown in FIG. 7, Result
1 is assigned relevancy score 9, Result 2 is assigned relevancy
score 8, Result 3 is assigned relevancy score 7, Result 4 is
assigned relevancy score 6, Result 5 is assigned relevancy score 5,
Result 6 is assigned relevancy score 4, and Result 7 is assigned
relevancy score 3. For the second query/search and the order of
results shown in FIG. 38, Result 6 is assigned relevancy score 9,
Result 8 is assigned relevancy score 8, Result 9 is assigned
relevancy score 7, Result 10 is assigned relevancy score 6, and
Result 4 is assigned relevancy score 5. For the third query/search
and the order of results shown in FIG. 40, Result 11 is assigned
relevancy score 9, Result 4 is assigned relevancy score 8, Result
12 is assigned relevancy score 7, Result 3 is assigned relevancy
score 6, Result 13 is assigned relevancy score 5, Result 5 is
assigned relevancy score 4, Result 6 is assigned relevancy score 3,
and Result 9 is assigned relevancy score 2. The relevancy scores
described above are illustrative only and assigned for ease of
explanation. Other types of relevancy scoring and ranking may be
used in ranking results based on collective relevance.
[0213] To arrive at a collective relevance score for each search
result, the relevancy scores assigned above are added together to
arrive at a collective relevance score. Accordingly, the collective
relevance scores for the results included in the third search
results are as follows: Result 4 has a collective relevance score
of 20 (7+5+8), Result 3 has a collective relevance score of 14
(8+0+6), Result 5 has a collective relevance score of 10 (6+0+4),
Result 6 has a collective relevance score of 17 (5+9+3), and Result
9 has a collective relevance score of 10 (0+8+2). As shown in FIG.
44, the results in the list 4415 are ordered based on the
collective relevancy scores. This order is different than the order
of the search results if only the relevancy scores to the current
query were used and reflects the collective relevancy of the search
results to each of the searches included in the current search
session. As shown, although Result 5 and Result 9 have the same
collective relevancy score, Result 5 is ordered prior to Result 9
because it has higher relevancy to the current query than Result 9
(e.g., relevancy to the current query is used to break the
tie).
[0214] In some implementations, rather than treating the relevancy
scores related to past queries with equal weight as relevancy
scores related to the current query, different weightings may be
used (e.g., relevancy scores related to the current query may be
given a higher weight than relevancy scores related to past
queries). For instance, in the example described above, the
relevancy scores related to Query 1 may be given a first weight
(e.g., 1) that is relatively lower than a second weight (e.g., 2)
given to relevancy scores related to Query 2. The second weight
given to relevancy scores related to Query 2 may be relatively
lower than a third weight (e.g., 3) given to relevancy scores
related to Query 3. In this example, the relevancy scores may be
multiplied by the corresponding weight when computing the
collective relevancy scores. Accordingly, the collective relevance
scores for the results included in the third search results are as
follows: Result 4 has a collective relevance score of 41 (7+10+24),
Result 3 has a collective relevance score of 26 (8+0+18), Result 5
has a collective relevance score of 18 (6+0+12), Result 6 has a
collective relevance score of 32 (5+18+9), and Result 9 has a
collective relevance score of 22 (0+16+6). The order determined
based on the weighted collective relevance scores is different than
the order of the search results using collective relevance scores
without weighting and reflects the collective relevancy of the
search results to each of the searches included in the current
search session with a decreasing degree of significance based on
how long ago the search was performed. Using weighting factors
results in the order of Result 5 and Result 9 being reversed
because Result 9 has a higher weighted score than Result 5.
[0215] Other implementations may assign weights to past searches in
a different manner. For instance, weights may be assigned based on
the similarity of the past query associated with the past search to
the current query (e.g., a higher weight may be assigned for
relevancy scores related to Query 1 than relevancy scores related
to Query 2 when Query 1 has a higher degree of similarity to Query
3 than Query 2). Also, values of weights may correspond to how long
ago the search was performed. For example, when Query 1 was
performed 20 minutes prior to Query 2 and Query 2 was performed 10
minutes prior to Query 3, Query 1 may be given a weight of 0.5 and
Query 2 may be given a weight of 2. In this example, if Query 1 was
performed 10 minutes prior to Query 2, then Query 1 may be given a
weight of 1. Other implementations may use different weighting
decisions and other processes for arriving at the collective
relevancy scores.
[0216] The displayed result indicator 4425 has been updated and now
identifies Result 11 to indicate that the currently displayed
content corresponds to Result 11. The displayed result indicator
4425 identifies Result 11 because Result 11 is the first result
included in the list of search results responsive to Query 3. The
second advertisement 4440 and the sponsored link 4445 represent a
new advertisement and a new sponsored link that have been selected
based on the selection of the search result "Result 11" included in
the third list of search results.
[0217] The content portion 4410 displays a representation of
electronic content linked to by the selected search result (e.g.,
content corresponding to Result 11). In response to the selection
of Result 11 (e.g., automatic selection because Result 11 was the
first result in the third list of search results), the electronic
content linked to by the selected result (e.g., content
corresponding to Result 11) may be accessed and displayed in the
content portion 4410.
[0218] FIG. 45 illustrates an example of a process 4500 for
automatically ordering a list of search results based on collective
relevancy scores. The search system 500 identifies past queries
entered by a user that are related to the current query entered by
the user (4510). For example, the search system 500 may identify
queries the user has entered within the search session
corresponding to the current query and also may identify past
queries that are related to the current query. The search system
500 may identify past queries using techniques similar to those
described above with respect to numeral 4310 shown in FIG. 43.
[0219] The search system 500 accesses electronic search results
identified for each of the identified past searches performed by
the user (4520). The search system 500 may access electronic search
results using techniques similar to those described above with
respect to numeral 4320 shown in FIG. 43.
[0220] The search system 500 accesses past relevancy ratings
associated with electronic search results identified for each of
the identified past queries entered by the user (4530). The search
system 500 may access stored relevancy ratings related to search
results for each of the past queries. The relevancy ratings may be
stored in local/remote electronic storage at a time when the query
corresponding to the search was executed. The search system 500
also may compute relevancy ratings in a new rating process for each
of the identified past queries in response to entry of the current
query.
[0221] The search system 500 accesses current relevancy ratings
that reflect the relevancy of electronic search results included
the list of electronic search results to the query entered by the
user (4540). For instance, the search system 500 may access current
relevancy ratings from local/remote electronic storage when
accessing the search results. The search system 500 also may
compute relevancy ratings in a new rating process for the current
query in response to entry of the current query.
[0222] The search system 500 determines collective relevancy
ratings for search results included the list of search results
based on the accessed past relevancy ratings and the current
relevancy ratings (4550). For example, the search system 500
computes, for each search result, a collective relevancy rating
using the past relevancy ratings and the current relevancy rating
for the search result. The collective relevancy rating may reflect
a summation of the past relevancy ratings and the current relevancy
rating, a weighted summation of the past relevancy ratings and the
current relevancy rating, and/or any other formula that combines
the past relevancy ratings and the current relevancy rating into a
single collective relevancy rating. Some examples of determining
collective relevancy ratings are described with respect to FIG.
44.
[0223] The search system 500 orders electronic search results
included in the list of electronic search results based on the
determined collective relevancy ratings (4560). The search system
500 may order the search results using any type of ordering
technique, but uses the collective relevancy ratings to determine
the order. For instance, the search system 500 may identify the
first search result in a list as the result having a collective
relevancy rating that reflects the highest collective relevance to
the current query and the past queries. The search system 500 may
order the results in decreasing collective relevance to the current
query and the past queries. Some examples of ordering are described
with respect to FIG. 44.
[0224] Referring again to FIG. 44, the interface 4400 includes a
remove history interface control 4450. The remove history interface
control 4450 enables a user to remove browsing history information
from the search results in the formatted list 4415. As shown in
FIG. 44, a user input icon 4460 may be displayed and manipulated by
a user (e.g., using a mouse) to select the remove history interface
control 4450. For example, the user input icon 4460 may be
positioned over the remove history interface control 4450 when the
user provides user input of a selection command.
[0225] FIG. 46 illustrates an interface 4600 that may be displayed
based on user selection of a remove history interface control in
the interface 4400. The interface 4600 includes an updated search
results portion 4605 that includes an updated list of search
results 4615. As shown, the updated list of search results 4615 is
the same as the list of search results 4415, except that the
displayed browsing history information has been removed from
display. For example, the sub-elements displayed in the list have
been removed, the clip/comment indicators have been removed, and
the list of search results 4615 is displayed as if no browsing
history has occurred with respect to the results in the list. The
browsing history may be removed from electronic storage or may
remain in electronic storage such that a user may provide user
input that causes the browsing history to be displayed again in the
list.
[0226] FIG. 47 illustrates an example of a process 4700 for
removing browsing history from a list of search results. The search
system 500 receives, from a user, a remove history command
indicating a desire to remove history information from a list of
search results (4710). In response to the remove history command,
the search system 500 removes the history information from the list
of electronic search results (4720). Then, the search system 500
displays an updated list of search results that does not include
the history information (4730).
[0227] Referring again to FIG. 46, the interface 4600 includes a
store interface control 4620 and a new/clear interface control
4630. The store interface control 4620 enables a user to store
information from the current search session in electronic storage
for later access. In response to selection of the store interface
control 4620, electronic information related to the current search
session (e.g., queries entered and search results identified,
browsing history information, clipped content, comments, list
manipulation information such as removed results and reordering
information, etc.) is stored that enables the user to resume the
search session at a later date with all of the information
displayed as if the search session did not end. The new/clear
interface control 4630 enables a user to start a new search session
(e.g., clear the current session). In response to selection of the
new/clear interface control 4630, the search results portion of the
interface 4600 is cleared and a new search session is started with
entry of a new query. As such, when a user begins searching for a
new information need, the user can start a new session to track
searching information associated with the new information need and
clear tracked search information related to a prior information
need that is not related to the new information need.
[0228] FIG. 48 illustrates an example of a process 4800 for storing
one or more lists of search results reviewed by a user during a
search session in a manner that reflects tracked browsing of the
search results by the user. The search system 500 tracks accesses
of electronic search results included in the list of electronic
search results (4810). For instance, the search system 500
monitors, for each of the search results, whether a user selects
the search result and reviews content corresponding to the search
result. The search system 500 also may track how long the user
accessed/reviewed the search result.
[0229] The search system 500 tracks links that are included in
content of electronic search results and that are selected (4820).
For example when the user accesses a search result, the search
system 500 monitors whether the user selects a link included in
content corresponding to the search result. The search system 500
may track which links the user selects.
[0230] The search system 500 adds supplemental information to the
list of electronic search results based on input received from user
(4830). The search system 500 may add supplemental information by
adding comments to a search result or clipping content related to
the search result, or adding other types of information related to
the search results.
[0231] The search system 500 removes at least one electronic search
result included in the list of electronic search results (4840).
For instance, the search system 500 may receive user input
indicating a desire to remove a search result from the list and
remove the search result based on the user input. The search system
500 also may automatically remove a search result based on user
access of the search result (e.g., access for a relatively short
period of time, no access for a relatively large period of time,
etc.).
[0232] The search system 500 further may update order information
associated with the list of search results. For example, the search
system 500 may receive user input indicating a desire to reorder a
search results in the list and update the order based on the user
input. The search system 500 also may automatically update an order
based on user access of search results (e.g., reorder a first
result prior to a second result when the user accesses the first
result longer than the second result).
[0233] The search system 500 receives, from a user, a store command
indicating a desire to store an updated list of search results
(4850). For instance, as discussed above with respect to FIG. 46,
the search system 500 may receive user input selecting a store
interface control or some other type of user input (e.g., an oral
comment instruction, a gesture input, etc.) that explicitly
indicates a desire to store search result information.
[0234] In response to receiving the store command, the search
system 500 stores, in electronic storage, information defining the
list of search results in a manner that represents (1) tracked
accesses of electronic search results, (2) tracked links that are
included in content corresponding to electronic search results and
that are selected by the user, (3) supplemental information added
to the list of electronic search results, and (4) removal of at
least one electronic search result (and/or reordering of search
results) (4860). The search system 500 may store the search results
information in local electronic storage at a client and/or remote
electronic storage at a host. The search system 500 also may store
search results information that identifies the user associated with
the search results, an identifier for the search session
corresponding to the search results information, and/or a date of
the search results information. The search system 500 may use the
information to later control display of the search results
information to the appropriate user.
[0235] FIG. 49 illustrates an example of a data structure 4900 for
storing information related to search results. The data structure
4900 includes a column 4901 that identifies the result, a column
4902 that identifies sub-elements associated with the result, a
column 4903 that identifies whether comments are associated with
the result and, if so, a link to a file storing the comments, a
column 4904 that identifies whether clipped content is associated
with the result and, if so, a link to a file storing the clipped
content, a column 4905 that identifies a status of the result
(e.g., removed, reviewed, unreviewed, etc.), and a column 4906 that
identifies whether the result is associated with another search
and, if so, which search or searches.
[0236] The data structure 4900 is associated with a particular
search session and includes data for each search included in the
search session. As shown, the data structure includes a first
portion 4910 corresponding the first search (e.g., the search
performed using Query 1), a second portion 4920 corresponding the
second search (e.g., the search performed using Query 2), and a
third portion 4930 corresponding the third search (e.g., the search
performed using Query 3).
[0237] The search system 500 enables the user to display the
updated list of search results using the stored information
defining the updated list of search results (4870). For instance,
the search system 500 may access search results data (e.g., the
data structure 4900) and recreate the interface when the search
session was saved. The search system 500 also may display an
interface that differs from the interface when the search session
was saved, but enables the user to access all of the search results
information by providing user input. In this case, the search
system 500 may display search identifiers for each of searches
included in the search session with expand controls that enable the
user to display the search results information associated with any
one of the searches included in the search session (e.g., the
interface when the search session was saved, but with all of the
search results information minimized/collapsed). By enabling a user
to store search session information and then use the search session
information to resume the search session, the user may be able to
resume a search more conveniently and more quickly track down
information the user located in the past using the search
system.
[0238] FIG. 50 illustrates a system 5000 that includes a client
5010 configured to interface with a host 5040 (that accesses a
search engine 5050) via a network 5030. The client 5010 is
configured to receive a search query. The client 5010 may provide
the search query to the host 5040 via network 5030. The host 5040
may be configured to provide the search query to the search engine
5050 and, in response, receives search results from the search
engine 5050. The host 5040 then may provide the search results to
the client 5010, via network 5030, for display to the user.
[0239] Each of the client 5010 and the host 5040 may be implemented
by, for example, a general-purpose computer capable of responding
to and executing instructions in a defined manner, a personal
computer, a special-purpose computer, a workstation, a server, a
device, a component, other equipment or some combination thereof
capable of responding to and executing instructions. The client
5010 and host 5040 may be configured to receive instructions from,
for example, a software application, a program, a piece of code, a
device, a computer, a computer system, or a combination thereof,
which independently or collectively direct operations, as described
herein. The instructions may be embodied permanently or temporarily
in any type of machine, component, equipment, or tangible storage
medium that is capable of being delivered to the client 5010, or
the host 5040.
[0240] The client 5010 may include one or more devices capable of
accessing content on the host 5040. The client 5010 may include a
general-purpose computer (e.g., a personal computer (PC)) capable
of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner, a
workstation, a notebook computer, a PDA ("Personal Digital
Assistant"), a wireless phone, a component, other equipment, or
some combination of these items that is capable of responding to
and executing instructions.
[0241] More particularly, client 5010 may be configured to receive
a search query from a user and provide the search query to host
5040. Client 5010 also may be configured to receive corresponding
search results from the host 5040. Client 5010 may display one or
more UIs for a user to enter the search query and to display the
search results.
[0242] The network 5030 provides a direct or indirect communication
link between the client system 5010 and the host 5040, irrespective
of physical separation. Examples of a delivery network 5030 include
the Internet, the World Wide Web, WANs, LANs, analog or digital
wired and wireless telephone networks (e.g., PSTN ("Public Switched
Telephone Network"), ISDN ("Integrated Services Digital Network"),
and DSL ("Digital Subscriber Line") including various forms of DSL
such as SDSL ("Single-line Digital Subscriber Line"), ADSL
("Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Loop), HDSL ("High bit-rate Digital
Subscriber Line"), and VDSL ("Very high bit-rate Digital Subscriber
Line)), radio, television, cable, satellite, and/or any other
delivery mechanism for carrying data.
[0243] The host 5040 generally includes one or more devices
configured to receive a search query and return search results
responsive to the search query. Host 5040 may access search engine
5050, which is capable of producing search results for search
queries. The host 5040 may include a general-purpose computer
having a central processor unit (CPU), and memory/storage devices
that store data and various programs such as an operating system
and one or more application programs. Other examples of a host 5040
includes a workstation, a server, a special purpose device or
component, a broadcast system, other equipment, or some combination
thereof capable of responding to and executing instructions in a
defined manner. The host 5040 also may include an input/output
(I/O) device (e.g., video and audio input and conversion
capability), and peripheral equipment such as a communications card
or device (e.g., a modem or a network adapter) for exchanging data
with the network 5030.
[0244] The host 5040 is generally capable of executing instructions
under the command of a controller. The host 5040 may be used to
provide content to the client 5010. The controller may be
implemented by a software application loaded on the host 5040 for
commanding and directing communications exchanged directly with the
client 5010 or through an intermediary. Other examples of the
controller include a device, a computer, a computer system, or a
combination thereof, for independently or collectively instructing
the client 5010 or the host 5040 to interact and operate as
described. The host 5040 may be embodied permanently or temporarily
in any type of machine, component, physical or virtual equipment,
storage medium capable of providing instructions to the client
5010, or the host 5040.
[0245] Search engine 5050 typically resides on the host 5040 and is
capable of executing searches based on a search query provided by
host 5040, as described above. Examples of search engine 5050
include a device, a computer, a computer system, or a combination
thereof, for independently or collectively instructing host 5040 to
interact and operate as described.
[0246] In some implementations, and as described, the techniques
described herein may be integrated as a component or functionality
of a particular search engine. Alternatively, such techniques may
be supplied to a user as a third party plug-in that may be used in
association with one or more particular search engines. As such,
the plug-in may be configured to work with existing browsers, as
well as those that are yet to be brought to market.
[0247] The plug-in may be configured to display search results with
pre-search activities performed by a user in a variety of
applications (e.g., browsers, word processing, audio/video and
email). A user may enter a search query into an interface provided
by the plug- or in a traditional search engine. A traditional
search engine may include an Internet search performed by an online
search engine, a search engine integrated into a particular web
site or a search engine provided by an online service provider, a
search of a user's local computer or a search for both Internet and
local content.
[0248] If the user provides the search query into an interface
provided by the plug-in, the plug-in may submit the search query to
a default or user-selected search engine. If the user provides the
search query into a traditional search engine, the plug-in may
automatically intervene and control display of search results.
[0249] The described systems, methods, and techniques may be
implemented in digital electronic circuitry, computer hardware, or
in combinations of these elements and software. Apparatus
implementing these techniques may include appropriate input and
output devices, a computer processor, and a computer program
product tangibly embodied in a machine-readable storage device for
execution by a programmable processor. A process implementing these
techniques may be performed by a programmable processor executing a
program of instructions to perform desired functions by operating
on input data and generating appropriate output. The techniques may
be implemented in one or more computer programs that are executable
on a programmable system including at least one programmable
processor coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to
transmit data and instructions to, a data storage system, at least
one input device, and at least one output device. Each computer
program may be implemented in a high-level procedural or
object-oriented programming language, or in assembly or machine
language if desired; and in any case, the language may be a
compiled or interpreted language. Suitable processors include, by
way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors.
Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a
read-only memory and/or a random access memory. Storage devices
suitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions and
data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of
example semiconductor memory devices, such as Erasable Programmable
Read-Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable
Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), and flash memory devices; magnetic disks
such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical
disks; and Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM). Any of the
foregoing may be supplemented by, or incorporated in,
specially-designed ASICs (application-specific integrated
circuits).
[0250] It will be understood that various modifications may be
made. For example, other useful implementations still could be
achieved if steps of the disclosed techniques were performed in a
different order and/or if components in the disclosed systems were
combined in a different manner and/or replaced or supplemented by
other components. Accordingly, other implementations are within the
scope of the following claims.
* * * * *